Historic Win for Stunt Professionals: Oscars Acknowledge Stunt Design
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a landmark addition to the Oscars: a competitive category for Best Stunt Design. This new award will be first presented at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028, recognizing films released in 2027.
This marks a long-awaited victory for the stunt community, which has campaigned for decades for recognition of its critical role in filmmaking.
David Leitch Leads the Charge for Recognition
Director and producer David Leitch, known for action hits like The Fall Guy, Deadpool 2, and Bullet Train, spearheaded the initiative. Starting his career as a stunt performer and coordinator, Leitch worked closely with stunt designer Chris O’Hara and others to present the case to the Academy.
“Stunts are essential to every genre of film,” Leitch said.
“Chris O’Hara and I have spent years working to bring this moment to life… standing on the shoulders of stunt professionals who’ve fought tirelessly for recognition.”
Academy Leadership Celebrates Milestone for the Industry
In a joint statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang honored the announcement:
“Since the early days of cinema, stunt design has been an integral part of filmmaking…
We are proud to honor the innovative work of these technical and creative artists.”
Category Celebrates Collaboration and Technical Mastery
Unlike awards for individual performances, the Best Stunt Design category recognizes the collaborative nature of stunt work. Veteran stunt director Chad Stahelski (John Wick) praised this thoughtful approach:
“Ours is one of the most collaborative and intricate departments in all of filmmaking…
It’s humbling and we feel very honored.”
Eligibility Rules and Voting Process to Be Announced in 2027
The Academy’s Board of Governors and executive team will determine the presentation details and rules. Full eligibility guidelines and voting procedures will be included in the official 100th Oscars rules, to be released in 2027.
Industry Leaders Celebrate a “Historic Moment”
Jeff Wolfe, president of the Stuntmen’s Association, expressed joy at the announcement:
“This is a historic moment for our community…
This recognition validates the passion, innovation, creativity and hard work that go into every fall, fight, and fireball.”
Growing Industry Momentum Behind Stunt Recognition
Support for stunt recognition has been building:
- In 2007, the SAG Awards introduced Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble.
- In 2024, the Screen Actors Guild and Directors Guild of America approved the first official “Stunt Designer” credit, used in The Fall Guy.
- Actor Winston Duke, while promoting The Fall Guy, called on audiences to become allies in advocating for stunt professionals.
“There could be no movies without the audience… We need you to amplify the voice of these folks.”
A Long-Awaited Win for Storytelling Through Action
This decision brings long-overdue recognition to the unsung heroes of cinematic storytelling. Whether jumping off buildings, choreographing intricate fights, or coordinating fiery explosions, stunt designers and performers now have a rightful place among Hollywood’s most celebrated artists.
