Q&A for How to Be a Stunt Man

Usually 18+.

It certainly couldn't hurt. If nothing else, it will show that you are committed to being in the industry.

Generally, people are most fit between 20-40 years old, so only keep going if you think your body can do so.

There are a few schools that really teach you everything you need to be a stuntman or woman. Search online for such schools.

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.

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).

You can once you get older. Most companies have age requirements.

Yes. Weight doesn't matter as long as you have acquired different skills and have them mastered.

The same steps will apply, regardless of gender.

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.

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.

No, many professional union stunt people have no military background but are still successful. What you really need are physical and technical skills.

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.

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.

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.