Stuntperson

Tasks & duties

Stuntpeople may do some or all of the following:

• study the sequence of stunt actions, especially if they are working with a team of stuntpeople
• rehearse stunts
• do warm-up stretches and exercises before doing stunts
• perform stunts in front of a camera and/or an audience
• use safety padding and equipment to prevent injury
• take the place of actors in scenes that are considered dangerous or require special skills
• attend training to learn how to perform new stunts and use stunt equipment

A stuntperson may become a stunt co-ordinator after gaining industry experience.

Stunt co-ordinators may do some or all of the following:

• study scripts
• design and co-ordinate the stunt sequences so that they are safe and visually effective
• examine and advise on the safety aspects of stunts and stunt equipment
• hire stuntpeople to perform stunts
• work closely with actors performing stunts or action sequences
• meet with directors, producers, and other film crew members to discuss how stunt sequences will be choreographed
• train other stunt performers or actors to perform stunts

Specialisations

Stuntpeople usually have skills and experience in a broad range of stunts; however, they may specialise in one or more areas of stunt work such as fighting, horse riding or high falls.

Skills & knowledge

Stuntpeople need to have:

• knowledge of different stunts, including which stunts to perform in certain situations and the best way of performing them
• knowledge of first aid and how to use safety equipment
• the ability to use specialist stunt equipment such as flying harnesses and airbags
• skills relating to the type of stunts they are performing such as martial arts, gymnastics or driving
• good communication and people skills

Acting skills are also useful for stuntpeople working as body doubles.

Entry requirements

To become a stuntperson you need to have the skills, knowledge and ability to perform stunts as stunt co-ordinators and/or acting agencies usually select stuntpeople based on their ability. To become a member of the Stunt Guild of New Zealand you must be at least 18 years of age and meet other specific criteria.

Secondary education

There are no specific secondary educational requirements, but drama and physical education may be useful.

Tertiary education

A qualification in drama or performing arts may be useful.

Training on the job

Stuntpeople attend stunt training sessions and rehearsals before shooting on a film set.

Useful experience

Useful experience for stuntpeople includes:

• gymnastics, tumbling and trampolining
• martial arts
• advanced specialised driving of motorbikes and/or cars
• theatre and film work
• dancing and drama
• stage combat
• mountain climbing
• horse riding and vaulting

Any of a variety of sports, including water skiing, scuba diving, high diving, hang-gliding, parachuting and boxing, are also useful.

Related courses

Drama and Theatre Studies
Human Movement and Sports Science

For more information, please refer to Career Services.