Introduction: A Long-Awaited Victory for the Unsung Heroes of Cinema

For over nine decades, the Academy Awards have honored excellence in filmmaking—from outstanding performances by actors to the visionary direction and innovative editing that brings stories to life. However, amid the glamour and accolades, one vital pillar of the film industry has consistently been left in the shadows: stunt performers. These professionals, who risk life and limb to bring thrilling action sequences to the screen, have never had their own category at the Oscars. That’s about to change.

In a groundbreaking announcement, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has confirmed the debut of a new category recognizing Best Stunt Coordination and Performance, set to premiere at the historic 100th Academy Awards in 2028. This move, long requested by industry professionals and fans alike, marks a significant turning point in the evolution of Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony.

This article explores the journey toward this long-overdue recognition, what it means for the industry, and how it will shape the future of cinematic storytelling. From historical oversight to the modern era of action-heavy blockbusters, we’ll uncover why stunt performers deserve this spotlight and what this monumental shift means for the Oscars’ legacy.

1. The Historical Oversight: Why Stunts Were Left Out for So Long

Despite the essential nature of stunt work in cinema, the Academy has never offered an award that specifically honors these artists. This absence has been a source of criticism and disappointment for decades.

In the early days of Hollywood, stunt performers were seen more as behind-the-scenes technicians than artists. Their contributions, while vital to action, western, and adventure genres, were not viewed on the same creative level as cinematographers, costume designers, or even special effects artists. Over time, however, this perception began to change as the complexity and danger of stunt work became more apparent—and as more audiences and filmmakers started voicing their appreciation.

Prominent directors such as Steven Spielberg, Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino, and James Cameron have publicly advocated for a stunt category, arguing that these performers are integral to the film experience. Yet despite numerous petitions, protests, and discussions, the Academy resisted—often citing the difficulty of objectively judging stunt work or the overlap with visual effects categories.

The move to include a stunt category in 2028 is not just an administrative change; it’s a correction of decades of institutional oversight.

2. The Path to 2028: Years of Advocacy and Persistence

The push for stunt recognition has been long and hard-fought. In the early 1990s, stunt legends like Jack Gill, Vic Armstrong, and Hal Needham began lobbying the Academy for change. Gill, in particular, has become synonymous with the campaign, spending nearly three decades championing the cause.

A significant milestone came in 2011, when a formal proposal for a stunt category was submitted to the Academy. Though initially rejected, the issue gained traction online and through social media. With the rise of fan-driven movements, like #StuntsInTheOscars, and viral videos showcasing the perilous work of stunt professionals, awareness grew steadily.

In 2021, the debate gained renewed energy after the success of films like Mad Max: Fury Road, John Wick, and Mission: Impossible – Fallout—all of which featured groundbreaking stunt sequences that were critical to their acclaim. In each case, the audience’s praise for the action scenes highlighted the disparity between stunt impact and awards recognition.

By 2023, the Academy had formed a task force to reevaluate existing award categories and consider new ones. After consultations with stunt professionals, filmmakers, and critics, they finally voted in favor of adding the category—timed strategically to coincide with the Oscars’ centennial celebration in 2028.

3. Why 2028 Is the Perfect Year for This Debut

The 100th Oscars will be a landmark event—a century of cinematic excellence celebrated in one unforgettable night. It’s fitting that such a historic ceremony would be the moment when one of the industry’s most overlooked crafts finally gets its due.

Symbolically, introducing the Best Stunt Coordination and Performance award at the centennial show positions the Academy as both reflective and progressive. It acknowledges its past mistakes while embracing a more inclusive future that honors the full spectrum of filmmaking artistry.

Moreover, by 2028, technological advancements, evolving industry standards, and global collaboration are expected to elevate stunt work even further. From motion capture and wire rigs to drone-based camera work, the modern stunt landscape is more innovative than ever. This makes 2028 not just the right time for such recognition—but the best time.

4. Understanding the New Category: Criteria and Judging

One of the challenges in creating a stunt category has been determining how to assess performances that are often part of ensemble action scenes, not always led by a single individual.

According to the Academy’s announcement, the Best Stunt Coordination and Performance award will recognize a combination of choreography, execution, innovation, and integration into the film’s storytelling. This includes:

• Stunt Design: The creativity behind the stunts and how they contribute to the narrative.
• Coordination: How safely and effectively the stunt team manages complex sequences.
• Performance: The physical execution, timing, and believability of the stunts.
• Cinematic Impact: How the stunts enhance the visual and emotional experience of the film.

Importantly, the award will be shared by both the stunt coordinator and a core team of performers, ensuring that the collaborative nature of stunt work is recognized rather than individualizing what is often a collective effort.

5. Celebrating Iconic Stunt Performers and Their Legacy

The new Oscar category also serves as a tribute to the countless stunt professionals who paved the way, often without public acknowledgment.

From Buster Keaton, who performed death-defying stunts in silent films, to modern legends like Zoë Bell, Tom Struthers, Diana Rigg, and David Leitch, the history of stunt work is rich with creativity and courage.

Let’s not forget the groundbreaking motorcycle chases of The Great Escape, the elaborate fight scenes in Enter the Dragon, or the practical vehicular carnage of Mad Max: Fury Road. All these sequences were brought to life by stunt artists whose names never appeared on Oscar night.

Going forward, the Academy could also consider honorary awards for pioneers in the field, perhaps even posthumous recognition for those who have made significant contributions. As awareness grows, we may even see a Stunt Performers Hall of Fame.

6. How This Category Could Change the Oscars

The introduction of a stunt category has the potential to significantly impact the dynamics of the Oscars in several ways:

• Viewership Boost: Audiences love action films. Recognizing stunt work could attract a broader demographic to the ceremony, particularly younger viewers.
• Genre Representation: Action-heavy films that are usually sidelined at the Oscars—like superhero movies, thrillers, and sci-fi blockbusters—will now have a legitimate shot at winning an Academy Award.
• Industry Morale: Stunt professionals will receive long-overdue acknowledgment, improving industry morale and potentially leading to better standards and safety protocols.
• Cultural Shift: It sends a strong message that every aspect of filmmaking is valuable, not just the roles in front of the camera or in the director’s chair.

7. Global Implications: Hollywood Isn’t Alone

Stunt work isn’t exclusive to Hollywood. International cinema has produced some of the most thrilling and original action sequences in film history. Think of Jackie Chan’s jaw-dropping fight choreography, Bollywood’s high-octane action spectacles, or South Korea’s visceral, emotionally charged combat scenes.

With the Academy finally recognizing stunt work, other international film institutions may follow suit. Cannes, BAFTA, and the Berlin International Film Festival could expand their own categories to include stunts, leading to greater global recognition of the craft.

This opens the door for more diverse talent, collaboration across borders, and richer storytelling where action is treated not just as spectacle—but as art.

8. Interviews and Industry Reactions

Since the announcement, the response from the film industry has been overwhelmingly positive. Here’s what some key figures had to say:

• Jack Gill: “This is a dream come true. We’ve fought for this for so long, and to finally have stunt work honored by the Academy is an emotional moment for all of us.”
• Zoë Bell: “It feels like we’re finally seen. Our work is invisible unless something goes wrong—but this recognition means everything.”
• Tom Cruise, known for performing many of his own stunts, posted on social media: “Incredible news. Stunt professionals are an essential part of filmmaking. Congrats to the entire community!”

Social media platforms also saw a surge of support from fans, with #StuntOscar2028 trending within hours of the announcement.

9. Looking Ahead: The First Likely Nominees?

While it’s too early to predict which films will be nominated in 2028, several upcoming releases already have fans speculating. Possible contenders might include:

• Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two: With Tom Cruise performing daredevil stunts in real locations, this franchise is a strong candidate.
• John Wick 5: Known for redefining modern action choreography, the next installment could be a serious contender.
• The Batman Sequel: Featuring practical effects and grounded combat, it may also make the list.
• Original Indie Action Films: With growing awareness, indie productions with unique stunt sequences could finally break into the mainstream awards circuit.

Conclusion: A Milestone Worth Celebrating

The inclusion of the Best Stunt Coordination and Performance category at the 100th Academy Awards is more than a new trophy—it’s a powerful recognition of courage, craft, and creativity. It validates the hard work of thousands of professionals who put their bodies on the line for the love of storytelling.

As we approach 2028, this historic addition promises to bring new energy to the Oscars and spotlight the artistry behind some of cinema’s most unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a bone-crushing brawl, a death-defying fall, or a high-speed chase, stunts are what make movie magic feel real—and it’s about time the Academy honored that magic on its biggest stage.