In the end, the Academy has introduced a brand new Oscar class for stunts, one thing which filmmakers have wished for years.
It’s official! The Board of Governors of the Academy of Movement Image Arts and Sciences introduced right this moment that they may introduce a brand new Oscar class that can lastly acknowledge stunts.
“Since the early days of cinema, stunt design has been an integral part of filmmaking,” stated Academy CEO Invoice Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. “We’re proud to honor the modern work of those technical and inventive artists, and we congratulate them for his or her dedication and dedication in reaching this momentous event.“
Director and producer David Leitch led the initiative on behalf of the stunt group and made a number of shows to the Academy alongside stunt coordinator and designer Chris O’Hara. “Stunts are essential to every genre of film and rooted deep in our industry’s history—from the groundbreaking work of early pioneers like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin, to the inspiring artistry of today’s stunt designers, coordinators, performers, and choreographers,” Leitch stated in an announcement. “This has been a protracted journey for thus many people. Chris O’Hara and I’ve spent years working to carry this second to life, standing on the shoulders of the stunt professionals who’ve fought tirelessly for recognition over the many years. We’re extremely grateful. Thanks, Academy.“
The primary Academy Award for Achievement in Stunt Design can be offered on the one hundredth Academy Awards for movies launched in 2027. The eligibility and voting guidelines can be introduced in 2027 with the entire one hundredth Academy Awards guidelines, and the specifics of the award’s presentation can be decided by the Academy’s Board of Governors and government management at a later date.
In an announcement to Selection, Jeff Wolfe, president of the Stuntmen’s Affiliation, stated, “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 is a historic moment for our community. For decades, stunt performers, coordinators, and action designers have played a crucial role in shaping the cinematic experience, often putting their bodies on the line to bring unforgettable moments to the screen. 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.” This one has been lengthy overdue.
Kramer appeared optimistic that an Oscar for stunts would occur when requested about it final yr. “We’re talking to members of the stunt community who are Academy members about the possibility of that,” Kramer stated. “We added a new award that will launch in two years for Casting Directors, so we’re always open to those discussions.” The brand new award will acknowledge achievement in casting and can first be offered throughout the 2026 Oscar ceremony. Previous to this, the final new Oscar class was Greatest Animated Characteristic, which was introduced in 2001, with Shrek taking residence the inaugural award.
