Those who have a penchant for danger might enjoy a career as a stunt double. Stunt doubles work on the sets of movies and television shows, performing the wild and crazy stunts that the actors aren’t able to accomplish. In fact, most actors aren’t allowed to participate in any activity that might result in injury.
The stunt double industry is highly competitive, and only the best of the best make it in Hollywood. Stunt doubles must be physically fit and must be capable of performing stunts that others wouldn’t attempt. Most stunt doubles have specializations, such as falling from heights or sword fighting, and this is how they make names for themselves.
The first step in pursuing a career as a stunt double is to become a member of the Screen Actors Guild Union. This membership gives you the ability to work on movie and television sets. Without this membership, you will only be able to work on non-union sets, which will usually mean low pay and less-than-safe circumstances.
Once you have obtained your SAG card, you can begin to work your way through the industry. Take as many stunt classes as possible, which are available at most film schools nationwide. You will also need to purchase a set of head shots, which are like a stunt double or actor’s resume. Head shots are taken using high quality film and are printed on 8X10 paper. They will cost you around $500.00 a set, but if you go for a cheaper or low-quality headshot, no one will consider you for stunt double parts.
On the back of your head shot you will attach your resume. It should include your name and address along with your height, weight and measurements. List all of your membership affiliations (such as the SAG) and any television or film credits that you want considered.
The Screen Actors Guild will have a monthly production list which is something like the newspaper classifieds for potential stunt double jobs. Since you are looking for stunt double jobs, you’ll only want to pursue work with productions that require your services. Mail a head shot along with your resume and a letter of interest to the stunt coordinator of each production you are interested in. Never call the stunt coordinator to inquire about the status of their hiring process, as this will only serve to get you “black-marked” from future jobs.
While you are waiting for your first stunt double gig, try working as an extra in TV and movies. This can pay up to $500.00 per day and will give you much needed experience.
Once you’ve landed your first stunt double job, arrive on time and do your job. Stunt coordinators like to work with people who follow direction without complaint and who don’t cause problems on the set. You don’t need to show off or try to make your part more extravagant than it already is; instead, try to be a trooper, and you’ll be invited for subsequent jobs.
