Q&A for How to Be a Stunt Man

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  • Question
    How old do I have to be to become a stunt man?
    Community Answer
    Usually 18+.
  • Question
    Will an associates degree in acting improve my resume?
    Community Answer
    It certainly couldn't hurt. If nothing else, it will show that you are committed to being in the industry.
  • Question
    Is 50 years old too old?
    Pearlbelle
    Top Answerer
    Generally, people are most fit between 20-40 years old, so only keep going if you think your body can do so.
  • Question
    Where do you go to train as a stuntman or woman?
    Community Answer
    There are a few schools that really teach you everything you need to be a stuntman or woman. Search online for such schools.
  • Question
    How badly could I get injured on set as a stuntman?
    Pearlbelle
    Top Answerer
    Rarely, stunt people have died on set. On the set of 'Resident Evil: The Final Chapter,' stunt woman Olivia Jackson was severely injured in a motorcycle accident on set in South Africa. She was left in a medically induced coma for a fortnight and her arm had to be amputated. Anything could happen on a film set, so take the injury risk into account before entering this business.
  • Question
    How much money does a stunt double make?
    Community Answer
    A union stunt double can make a minimum of $1300 per day up to over $7000 in one day, depending on the stunt, with adjustments, peaking around $300k to $400k per year (if you're doing top rated films).
  • Question
    Can I become a stuntman if I am a kid?
    Community Answer
    You can once you get older. Most companies have age requirements.
  • Question
    Can I become a stunt man if I'm an underweight 20 year-old guy taller than most men?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Weight doesn't matter as long as you have acquired different skills and have them mastered.
  • Question
    How do I get into the business of being a stunt woman?
    Community Answer
    The same steps will apply, regardless of gender.
  • Question
    What subjects should I take up for GCSE to be a successful stuntman or woman?
    HumanBeing
    Top Answerer
    English will always be useful - potential employers will know you can communicate and will understand written scripts and directions. Drama, if offered at your school, would be a good choice, too. Having a history qualification might be good if you want to be in period films. Maths might help you keep track of your earnings and work out timings for stunts. If you can get a qualification in another language, it will make you more employable internationally. Even physics could help, as a lot of stunts are about bodies in motion.
  • Question
    I am 15 years old and I have done fencing as well as gymnastics. Is there any way I can get my foot in the door at this age?
    Theolex
    Community Answer
    They probably won’t get you into doing stunts until you’re 18. But, doing gymnastics is an advantage, as you can practice jumping and falling.
  • Question
    Do I have to have served in the U.S. Army to be a professional stuntman?
    Community Answer
    No, many professional union stunt people have no military background but are still successful. What you really need are physical and technical skills.
  • Question
    Do I have to go to stunt school to become a stuntman?
    Community Answer
    No, this isn't essential. However, it certainly helps if you do go to stunt school because it shows you have good experiences in all types of stunt work needed for being a stuntman or woman and will reassure those hiring you that you're competent at stunt work.
  • Question
    What skills are needed to be a stunt man?
    Community Answer
    Usually safe falling and tumbling. So if anything, some time spent in gymnastics, cheerleading, etc. could definitely help. But also, some decent skills in swimming and also driving, like cars, motorcycles, even boats.
  • Question
    Is it important is it to know swimming?
    Community Answer
    If casting directors need the stunts to be in water, yes, then you will need to know how to swim. It's a good idea.
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