Expert: Peter Messaline - 7/13/2009

Question
Hi I'm Thomas. I think I could be a great stunt man even though I am only 15. I am a gymnast/free runner who is not afraid to do anything. The only problem is that there are no stunt classes offered where I live. So how do I get noticed and started in this career?

Answer
I don't know where you live, but if you Google 'stunt class' or 'stage combat', and your nearest city, you may be surprised.

Three things:
    There is no way you will be a professional stunter until you are over eighteen -- the insurance coverage would cripple the film!
    Stunters get work through other stunters who have become stunt co-ordinators. Most experienced stunters begin to recommend the people in their trusted team, and then expand that to being something closer to an agent for stunters.
    Stunters need to be very fit and have a high degree of ability in a number of physical skills like rock climbing, driving, horse riding, etc., but they also have to learn the tricks of the trade. Stunting is dangerous, but most of it is trickery and good preparation. Most stunters come up through an unpaid apprenticeship with a good team. You will find that you spend a lot of time coiling other people's ropes and bringing water bottles before the stunt co-ordinator gives you anything that appears on camera.

I suggest that you start finding specialised classes, taking up saleable skills, and publicising yourself to stunt co-ordinators. Find out what they've done, praise them for it, and tell them what you are doing to earn a place with them in the future. Keep in touch and by the time you are hirable they will already be interested in you.

I won't wish you luck by saying, "Break a leg" !