Oscars to Debut New Best Stunt Design Category in 2028
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In a groundbreaking move, the Academy Awards is set to introduce a new category honouring stunt performers in the film industry. The inaugural award for Best Stunt Design will make its debut at the 100th annual Oscars ceremony scheduled for 2028.
The decision marks a significant acknowledgement of the crucial role that stunt designers have played in shaping the cinematic experience since the early days of filmmaking. In a joint statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their pride in recognising the innovative and creative work of these technical artists.
Over 100 stunt professionals, who are part of the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch, will be eligible to compete for the prestigious Achievement in Stunt Design award. The long-awaited inclusion of stunt performers in the Oscars categories follows a trend of expanding recognition within the industry.
Notably, the recent addition of an Oscar for movie casting, beginning with the 2026 ceremony, reflects the Academy’s commitment to acknowledging the diverse talents that contribute to the art of filmmaking. This shift towards inclusivity has been met with enthusiasm and anticipation across the entertainment community.
Leading the charge for the recognition of stunt professionals was director David Leitch, known for his work in action films like “Bullet Train” and “The Fall Guy.” Collaborating with industry experts such as Chris O’Hara, Leitch championed the cause through compelling presentations to the Academy.
The move by the Academy Awards to include a Best Stunt Design category aligns with the efforts of other prestigious award ceremonies. The Screen Actors Guild Awards, which celebrate excellence in acting, established a stunt ensemble category in 2007, setting a precedent for recognising the contributions of stunt performers.
With the upcoming 98th Academy Awards slated for March 15, 2026, under the stewardship of host Conan O’Brien, the anticipation for the industry-wide shift in recognising stunt performers continues to grow. The announcement of the new category signifies a significant milestone in the evolution of the Oscars and the celebration of diverse talents within the film industry.
As the countdown begins towards the 100th Oscars ceremony in 2028, the addition of the Best Stunt Design award heralds a new era of appreciation for the daring and skilled professionals who bring action sequences to life on the silver screen. The industry eagerly awaits the opportunity to honour the unsung heroes of cinema and celebrate their invaluable contributions to the art of filmmaking.