Academy Introduces Stunt Design Oscar for the 100th Annual Awards
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially unveiled its plans to introduce a new Oscar category dedicated to stunt design, set to debut at the 100th Oscars, celebrating films released in 2027. This decision marks a significant milestone in recognizing the vital contributions of stunt professionals in the filmmaking process.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “Since the early days of cinema, stunt design has been an integral part of filmmaking. We are proud to honor the innovative work of these technical and creative artists, and we congratulate them for their commitment and dedication in reaching this momentous occasion.” Their remarks highlight the long-overdue acknowledgment of the technical artistry involved in stunt work.
Eligibility and Voting Framework for the New Award
Details surrounding eligibility criteria and the voting process for this inaugural award will be released in 2027, coinciding with the announcement of the complete rules for the 100th Academy Awards. Moreover, the Academy’s Board of Governors and executive leadership will determine the specifics regarding the award’s presentation at a later date, ensuring that it aligns with the prestigious history of the Oscars.
The Community Behind the Award
Notably, the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch includes over 100 dedicated stunt professionals, underscoring the depth of expertise and commitment within the community. Their involvement not only enhances the quality of film but also enriches the storytelling experience through expertly executed stunts.
The introduction of the stunt design Oscar follows the establishment of the Achievement in Casting award, which was created in 2024 and premiered at the 98th Academy Awards for films released in 2025. This trend reflects a growing recognition of diverse aspects of filmmaking that contribute significantly to a film’s overall success.
As the film industry evolves, the acknowledgment of stunt design as a distinct and crucial part of cinematic storytelling is both timely and necessary. This new category is expected to foster appreciation for the artistry involved in staging action sequences and encourage further innovation in stunt work.