In unexpected news, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that a new Oscar will be handed out for Stunt Design at the 100th Academy Awards. This will mean that after years of lobbying, stunt performers will finally have a chance to win an Academy Award. There are already 100 stunt professionals in the Academy’s Production and Technology Branch, but they do not have their own branch as of yet.
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In a statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang noted, “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.”Over two years may seem a long way off, but this is a similar timeline to the new Casting Oscar, which will debut for the 98th Oscars next year. The Academy says category rules for eligibility and voting for the inaugural award will be announced in 2027 when the complete 100th Academy Awards Rules are released.
The announcement also states, “The specifics of the award’s presentation will be determined by the Academy’s Board of Governors and executive leadership at a future date.” Does that mean AMPAS is leaving the door open for the award to be handed out at a different ceremony? Considering the need to broaden interest in the Oscars, it would seem like a mistake not to include this category on the main broadcast.
Notably, the Screen Actors Guild’s SAG Awards have handed out Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture and an Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series since 2008. “The Fall Guy” won the movie category this past February.
Director and producer, David Leitch, who campaigned for the new honor released a statement, noting, “Stunts are essential to every genre of film and rooted deep in our industry’s history—from the groundbreaking work of early pioneers like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin, to the inspiring artistry of today’s stunt designers, coordinators, performers, and choreographers. This has been a long journey for so many of us. 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. Thank you, Academy” 
The 98th Academy Awards will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2026.