Oscars to Introduce Best Stunt Design Category at 100th Academy Awards

In a historic move that honors the fearless artists behind cinema’s most breathtaking action, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a brand-new Oscars category: Best Stunt Design. Set to debut at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028, this long-overdue recognition will celebrate the creative teams behind stunt choreography and action design in films released in 2027. “Oscars to Introduce Best Stunt Design Category at 100th Academy Awards” may sound like a headline fans of action movies have dreamed of for years—and now, it’s a reality. From elaborate car chases to high-wire fights, the often-overlooked craft of stunt coordination will finally get its place on Hollywood’s biggest stage.

Recognizing a Century of Stunt Excellence

The Academy’s Board of Governors approved the long-anticipated category following growing advocacy from within the industry. Director and former stuntman David Leitch, known for his work on The Fall Guy, Bullet Train, and Deadpool 2, spearheaded the initiative on behalf of the stunt community. Leitch collaborated with Chris O’Hara (of Stunts Unlimited) and others to present the case to the Academy through years of dedicated campaigning.

“Stunts are essential to every genre of film,” Leitch said in a statement, recognizing legends like Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd as early pioneers. “This has been a long journey for so many of us… We are incredibly grateful.”

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang also expressed their support, stating, “We are proud to honor the innovative work of these technical and creative artists.”

The Category Will Honor Collaboration and Creativity

Unlike awards that recognize individual performances, Best Stunt Design will acknowledge the deeply collaborative nature of stunt work. Industry veteran Chad Stahelski (John Wick) praised the decision, noting that the Academy made a wise choice by focusing on design instead of individual performers. “Our department is one of the most collaborative and intricate of all the departments,” he said.

Over 100 stunt professionals are currently members of the Academy’s production and technology branch, underscoring the legitimacy and depth of the craft.

The Long Road to Recognition

This achievement follows decades of calls for greater recognition of stunt professionals, who have risked their lives to create some of cinema’s most unforgettable moments. Jeff Wolfe, president of the Stuntmen’s Association, described the announcement as “historic,” adding, “This is a win for storytelling, not just stunts.”

The Oscars’ new direction mirrors moves made by other awards bodies. The Screen Actors Guild introduced a category for outstanding stunt ensemble back in 2007, and the Directors Guild of America approved the official title of “stunt designer” in 2024—first credited to Chris O’Hara for The Fall Guy.

Star Power Behind the Movement

Beyond the stunt community, high-profile names have also advocated for this recognition. Ryan Gosling, who starred in The Fall Guy, used his press appearances to elevate the conversation around stunt performers. His wife, Eva Mendes, shared a photo of him on set holding a sign that read, “Give Stunts An Oscar,” following the Academy’s announcement.

Meanwhile, actors like Tom Cruise, Keanu Reeves, and Donnie Yen are frequently praised for performing their own stunts, though the new category focuses on the behind-the-scenes talent—stunt coordinators, designers, and performers—rather than actors showcasing extra skills. Still, Cruise’s producer role in the Mission: Impossible series could open the door for potential recognition depending on the Academy’s final rules.

Aligning With a Changing Industry

The introduction of the Best Stunt Design Oscar reflects the Academy’s push to remain relevant in an industry where franchises, action epics, and visually driven storytelling dominate. Films like John Wick, Mad Max: Fury Road, and Mission: Impossible have all raised the bar for action choreography, while the stunt-heavy Avengers: Secret Wars and The Batman Part II are among the 2027 releases poised to benefit from this new recognition.

Additionally, this development may encourage studios to invest in action-centric original projects, outside of big IPs, to compete in the new category. Fans could see a resurgence in films with intricate fight choreography and creative set pieces, reminiscent of classics like Police Story or Ip Man.

Following the Path of Recent Reforms

The new stunt category follows another recent addition—the Best Casting Oscar—introduced in 2024 and set to be awarded starting in 2026. The Academy’s willingness to embrace these changes signals a shift toward honoring the broader spectrum of filmmaking talent.

Still, it begs the question—why did it take over a century for stunts to receive this acknowledgment? According to industry insiders, hesitation around safety concerns, the evolving role of movie stars, and the Academy’s historical resistance to change all played a part in the delay.

A Milestone Moment for the Industry

The creation of the Best Stunt Design Oscar marks a pivotal moment in the Academy’s history and the evolution of award recognition in Hollywood. As audiences demand more authentic, high-stakes action and as professionals continue to push the limits of what’s possible on screen, the new category arrives not only as a celebration but also as a correction long overdue.

With more details to come in 2027, including eligibility and voting criteria, fans and professionals alike now have even more reason to tune into the 100th Academy Awards in 2028—a show that will finally honor the fearless, creative artists who have always risked it all for movie magic.

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