Stunt Performers

Employers

Most stunt performers work on a freelance basis, contracting with individual productions on a project-by-project basis. Stunt performers working on TV projects may have long-term commitments if serving as a stand-in for a regular character. Some stunt performers also work in other aspects of the entertainment industry, taking jobs with theme parks, and live stage shows and events.

Starting Out

Most stunt performers enter the field by contacting stunt coordinators and asking for work. Coordinators and stunt associations can be located in trade publications. To be of interest to coordinators, stunt performers promote any special skills they have, such as stunt driving, skiing, and diving. Many stunt performers also have agents who locate work for them, but an agent can be very difficult to get without stunt experience. If you live in New York or Los Angeles, volunteer to work as an intern for an action film; you may have the chance to meet some of the stunt performers and make connections with crew members and other industry professionals. If you attend a stunt school, you may develop important contacts in the field.