The Academy Awards is set to celebrate the important role of stunt performers in filmmaking by introducing a new category starting in 2028. This announcement was made as part of plans for the 100th annual Oscars ceremony, which will feature the Best Stunt Design award.
The move comes after years of discussions in the film industry regarding the recognition of stunt professionals. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang released a statement expressing their pride in honoring the contributions of these skilled artists, acknowledging their dedication to the craft of cinema.
The Best Stunt Design award will be given annually, recognizing the creativity and hard work behind movie stunts. Over 100 members of the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch are stunt professionals who will have a say in this new competitive category.
This announcement follows the recent decision to introduce an Oscar for achievement in movie casting beginning in 2026. Films released in 2025 will be eligible for this new prize.
David Leitch, known for his work as a stunt double for big names and as a director of hits like “Bullet Train,” has been a vocal advocate for recognizing stunt performers. He and stunt coordinator Chris O’Hara presented their case to the Academy, pushing for this long-overdue acknowledgment.
Stunt ensembles gained recognition in the film industry earlier when the Screen Actors Guild Awards added a stunt category in 2007. Notably, the winners of the latest SAG awards included films like “The Fall Guy” and “Shōgun.”
As the Oscars prepare for their centennial celebration, this shift in recognizing the artistry of stunt performance marks a significant step forward in honoring all aspects of filmmaking. The 98th Academy Awards is scheduled for March 15, 2026, with comedian Conan O’Brien slated to host for the second consecutive year.
