After decades of being the unsung heroes behind some of cinema’s most adrenaline-pumping moments, stunt professionals are finally stepping into the Oscar spotlight.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced the addition of a new competitive category — Best Stunt Design — set to debut at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028, recognizing outstanding stunt work in films released in 2027. This groundbreaking decision marks a momentous turning point for an often overlooked yet vital aspect of filmmaking.
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Behind the Movement: Pioneers of the Push for Recognition
The momentum to create this category was driven by individuals who intimately understand the grit and artistry behind each punch, crash, and leap on screen. Director and former stunt performer David Leitch — known for helming action-packed hits like Deadpool 2, Bullet Train, and The Fall Guy — championed the cause alongside veteran stunt coordinator Chris O’Hara. Representing the stunt community, they made several compelling presentations to the Academy’s Board of Governors, ultimately securing a well-deserved space for their craft on Hollywood’s biggest night.
“This has been a long journey for so many of us,” Leitch stated. “Chris O’Hara and I have spent years working to bring this moment to life, standing on the shoulders of the stunt professionals who’ve fought tirelessly for recognition over the decades. We are incredibly grateful. Thank you, Academy.”
A Milestone Years in the Making
The inclusion of this category comes after persistent advocacy and growing support from both industry insiders and fans. More than 100 members of the Academy’s production and technology branch are stunt professionals, signaling a robust internal network long overdue for acknowledgment. The stunt world’s path to this recognition mirrors the lengthy road it has traveled, dating back to silent film legends like Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd — whose daring feats shaped early cinematic storytelling.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang acknowledged this legacy in their joint statement: “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, and we congratulate them for their commitment and dedication in reaching this momentous occasion.”
Collaboration at the Core: A Department Unlike Any Other
Chad Stahelski, director of the John Wick series and a former stuntman himself, emphasized the unique nature of stunt work: “I think it’s much more of an achievement. You’re talking over 100 years of stunt performances… our department is one of the most collaborative and intricate of all the departments.”
This collaborative spirit is precisely why the Academy opted to award stunt design — a team-oriented effort — rather than individual performances. It reflects the department’s complex choreography, technical planning, and coordination that collectively produce action sequences capable of rivaling any cinematic moment in intensity and emotion.
Rules and Guidelines to Come
The official eligibility requirements and voting procedures for the inaugural Best Stunt Design Oscar will be outlined in 2027 as part of the 100th Academy Awards rulebook. Decisions regarding how the award will be presented — whether during the main telecast or a separate ceremony — will be determined by the Academy’s executive leadership and Board of Governors at a later date.
Waves of Support Across the Industry
Reaction to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Jeff Wolfe, president of the Stuntmen’s Association, praised the decision: “I can’t express enough how thrilled and proud we are to see the Academy recognize the art and craft of stunt action design with its own Oscar category… This recognition validates the passion, innovation, creativity and hard work that go into every fall, fight, and fireball. It’s not just a win for our industry — it’s a win for storytelling.”
The support even extends to fellow actors. Winston Duke, while promoting The Fall Guy, underscored the importance of audience advocacy: “We’re allies of the stunt community… There could be no movies without the audience and we need you to amplify the voice of these folks as well.”
Stunt Designers Earn Formal Credit
The Academy’s move follows other significant strides made in the stunt field. In 2024, both the Directors Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild formally recognized the title of “stunt designer” for the first time — credited to O’Hara’s work on The Fall Guy. The Screen Actors Guild Awards, in fact, has honored stunt ensembles since 2007, with Leitch’s latest action-comedy winning the most recent accolade in that category.
With its centennial celebration approaching, the Oscars are finally giving long-overdue acknowledgment to a cinematic discipline that has thrilled audiences for generations. The Best Stunt Design category promises not only to honor the extraordinary feats that elevate films into unforgettable experiences but also to redefine how the industry — and the world — values those behind the scenes who make movie magic look effortless.
As David Leitch aptly put it: “Stunts are essential to every genre of film and rooted deep in our industry’s history—from the groundbreaking work of early pioneers… to the inspiring artistry of today’s stunt designers, coordinators, performers, and choreographers.”
And now, at long last, the Oscars agree.
FAQs
What is the new Oscars category introduced for 2028?
The Academy has introduced a new competitive category—Best Stunt Design—starting with the 100th Academy Awards in 2028, honoring films released in 2027.
Who led the initiative to create the Best Stunt Design Oscar?
Director and former stunt performer David Leitch, along with Chris O’Hara, led the efforts to establish the category, representing the stunt community.
Why is the Best Stunt Design category significant?
It marks the first time in Oscar history that the Academy formally recognizes the artistic and technical craft of stunt professionals in filmmaking.
When will the eligibility rules for Best Stunt Design be announced?
Eligibility and voting guidelines will be revealed in 2027 as part of the 100th Academy Awards official rules.
How does the Academy view stunt work in films?
Academy leaders called stunt design an “integral part of filmmaking” and praised the “innovative work” of stunt artists throughout cinematic history.
