Filmmaker Scott Waugh Recalls Jackie Chan Nailing an Impossible Stunt at Age 65 After He Was Asked to Let a Stunt Double Step in (Exclusive)

**Scott Waugh Reflects on Collaborations with Action Legends and His New Film ‘Runner’**

Scott Waugh, a seasoned filmmaker and stuntman, embodies a wealth of experience, having had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most iconic action stars in cinema history. At 56, Waugh shared insights from his career in a recent interview, highlighting his collaborations with legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, and Jackie Chan.

Waugh, whose father, Fred Waugh, was a renowned stuntman, expressed his gratitude for the experiences that his career has afforded him. In his conversation, he recalled fondly his work with Stallone, particularly on the 1994 film “The Specialist”, where he found himself on the receiving end of a rather intense fight scene. “To direct Sly was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he stated. “He’s such an iconic figure in action filmmaking.” Waugh reminisced about how impressed he was with Stallone’s physicality, even at 77 years old during their collaboration on “Expendables”.

Another noteworthy partnership in Waugh’s career came in 2023, when he directed Jackie Chan in the action film “Hidden Strike”. At 72, Chan’s relentless determination and physical prowess stood out to Waugh. One memorable scene involved Chan performing a complex stunt where he needed to repel from a helicopter to land inside a bus. Despite multiple failed attempts, Chan’s perseverance paid off on the fifteenth take. Waugh recalled, “He does it, lands perfectly, and everybody’s cheering. I’m blown away.” Chan, without missing a beat, remarked as he walked past Waugh, “65,” indicating his age at the time of the stunt, a tribute to his remarkable athleticism.

The filmmaker’s career, marked by excitement and rapid developments, is still burgeoning. His latest project, “Runner”, has recently been released digitally, featuring a gripping narrative centred around a race against time to deliver an organ donation to a seven-year-old girl battling cancer. The film stars Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson, promising high stakes and emotional depth.

Waugh expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that the screenplay offered an emotional core he had been eager to explore. “Who’s not going to get behind that?” he remarked about the story’s themes of redemption and sacrifice. The positive critical reception of “Runner” has been encouraging for Waugh, who emphasised the importance of continual growth as a filmmaker, aiming for each project to improve upon the last.

The director also acknowledged the influence of the legendary figures he has worked with, saying they have taught him invaluable lessons. He holds the view that filmmaking is a continual learning journey, where every mistake made is a stepping stone for improvement.

His experiences, from working with legendary action stars to crafting his own films, have solidified Waugh’s position in the film industry, illustrating the profound impact of collaboration and mentorship. As he continues to push boundaries with new projects, he remains excited about the future.

Currently, “Runner” is available on various platforms including Apple TV, Prime Video, Spectrum On Demand, and Angel Studios, offering a chance for audiences to experience Waugh’s latest thrilling endeavour. As the filmmaker continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of action cinema, his passion for storytelling and respect for the craft remain at the forefront of his work.

Scott Waugh’s journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring filmmakers and stunt performers, showcasing the enduring spirit and dedication that defines the world of action filmmaking.