The Oscars Are Adding A Stunt Design Category: A New Era for Action Cinema Begins

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made history by announcing that the Oscars are adding a stunt category, officially named Achievement in Stunt Design, set to debut at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028.

This landmark decision celebrates the daring artistry of stunt performers and coordinators who bring heart-stopping action to life on screen. From epic battles to gravity-defying leaps, here’s everything you need to know about this thrilling addition to Hollywood’s biggest night.

Why Has the Academy Decided to Honor Stunts?

Stunt performers have been the pulse of action films for over a century, yet their work has gone unrecognized by the Oscars—until now. The movement to include a stunt category gained steam through passionate advocacy from figures like Deadpool 2 director David Leitch and stunt coordinator Chris O’Hara.

Their compelling case to the Academy’s Board of Governors emphasized the skill, creativity, and danger behind every choreographed sequence. With more than 100 stunt experts in the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch, the timing feels right to celebrate this vital craft alongside other technical achievements.

What Will the Stunt Design Award Recognize?

The Achievement in Stunt Design Oscar will shine a light on the collaborative genius of stunt teams. From meticulously planned car chases in Mad Max: Fury Road to the intricate fight scenes of The Raid, this award will honor the vision and execution that make action sequences unforgettable.

While specific guidelines are still being finalized for 2027, the focus is on rewarding innovation and teamwork. John Wick director Chad Stahelski praised the Academy for ensuring the category respects the craft’s integrity, avoiding any rush that could dilute its meaning.

How Is Hollywood Responding to the Announcement?

The news has ignited excitement across the industry. SS Rajamouli, the visionary behind RRR, called it a “dream come true,” thrilled to see his film’s action highlighted in the Academy’s reveal alongside Mission: Impossible.

Jeff Wolfe, head of the Stuntmen’s Association, described it as a tribute to generations of stunt performers who’ve paved the way. Fans on social media are already buzzing, with some playfully dubbing it the “Tom Cruise Award” for his iconic stunts. The enthusiasm underscores how the Oscars adding a stunt category resonates deeply with audiences and professionals alike.

What Does This Mean for the Oscars’ Future?

Expanding the Oscars isn’t new—casting directors will get their own award in 2026—but including stunts marks a bold step toward inclusivity. Action films, often sidelined at the ceremony, now have a chance to shine through the craft that defines them.

The Screen Actors Guild Awards have long celebrated stunts, with The Fall Guy taking home a win in 2024, and the Oscars’ move aligns with this growing appreciation. It’s a signal that the Academy is evolving to reflect the full spectrum of filmmaking artistry.

When Will We See the First Stunt Oscar Awarded?

The first Achievement in Stunt Design Oscar will be presented at the 100th Academy Awards in March 2028, honoring films released in 2027. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang hailed stunts as a cornerstone of cinema, setting high expectations for the category’s debut.

As studios and stunt teams prepare, anticipation is building over which film might claim the inaugural prize. Will it be a high-octane blockbuster or an underdog with groundbreaking action?

Some Closing Thoughts: A Spotlight on Cinema’s Daredevils

By embracing stunt design, the Oscars are finally giving credit to the fearless artists who make action films unforgettable. This isn’t just about adding another award—it’s about honoring the courage and creativity that drive every pulse-pounding moment.

With the 100th Oscars on the horizon, the stage is set for a celebration of not just stars, but the stunt teams who make the impossible look real.

Which action sequence do you think deserves to make history? Let us know in the comments section down below.