After years of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences largely overlooking stuntwork, the Oscars are set to introduce a new category. Today, the Academy revealed plans to honor stunt design with an Oscar, beginning with films released in 2027, in celebration of the awards ceremony’s 100th anniversary.
“From the earliest days of cinema, stunt design has been a vital aspect of filmmaking,” stated Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang in an announcement regarding the new category. “We take pride in recognizing the pioneering efforts of these technical and creative artists, and we commend them for their dedication and perseverance in achieving this significant recognition.”
The Academy has not yet disclosed any additional eligibility criteria for films competing in this new category. “The details of the award’s presentation will be outlined by the Academy’s Board of Governors and executive leadership at a later time,” the Academy’s press release stated.
Currently, although over 100 stunt workers are part of the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch, as noted by The Hollywood Reporter, only two honorary Oscars have been awarded to stunt performers. With the formal establishment of this new category, studios are likely to place greater focus on their projects’ thrilling and daring sequences.
