​The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the introduction of a new Oscar category: Achievement in Stunt Design. This award will debut at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028, honoring films released in 2027

This significant development comes after years of advocacy by industry professionals, including director David Leitch and stunt coordinator Chris O’Hara. Leitch, known for his work on action films such as John Wick and Deadpool 2, has been a prominent figure in pushing for official recognition of stunt professionals

The new category aims to acknowledge the artistry and technical skill involved in stunt design, which has been a vital component of filmmaking since the early days of cinema. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang emphasized that stunt design is “an integral part of filmmaking” and expressed pride in honoring these “technical and creative artists” .

The decision to add this category reflects the Academy’s commitment to evolving and recognizing all facets of filmmaking. Specific eligibility and voting rules for the award will be announced in 2027, with the Academy consulting extensively with industry experts to ensure a fair and meaningful process .

“Chris O’Hara and I have spent years working to bring this moment to life, standing on the shoulders of the stunt professionals who’ve fought tirelessly for recognition over the decades. We are incredibly grateful.”

Stunt designer is a relatively new designation. For his work on The Fall Guy, O’Hara was the first person to be credited as such.

“To be seen by the film community as stunt designers hopefully brings more light to what we really do,” O’Hara told The Associated Press in 2024.

“Back in the day, stunt guys were the cowboys. Now we are creative. We create amazing things, just like a production designer does or a costume designer does.”