Ryan Reynolds, star of upcoming film “Deadpool & Wolverine,” is urging the Academy to acknowledge stunt work at the Oscars. In a recent social media post, Reynolds praised the stunt team’s work on the new movie. He said stunt performers deserve credit just like other artists in film.
The actor shared photos with his stunt doubles and coordinators on Instagram. “Stunt work isn’t nominated for an Oscar yet. I hope that changes,” Reynolds wrote. He pointed out that early filmmakers like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd and Charlie Chaplin performed their own stunts. Reynolds said these pioneers told stories with their bodies, just like today’s stunt performers.
Reynolds specifically highlighted some members of his team. This includes his longtime stunt double Alex Kyshkovych and stunt coordinator George Cottle. He also gave credit to Hugh Jackman’s double Daniel Stevens. The actor said the “Deadpool & Wolverine” stunt team “went above and beyond” on the new film.
Stunt work doesn’t have a category at The Oscars and I hope that’ll change someday. So many films have smashed it this year. Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd and Chaplin were stunt performers as well as filmmakers. Telling stories with their entire bodies.
This D&W stunt team… pic.twitter.com/19qfdKJew4
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) August 28, 2024
Reynolds is a big name in Hollywood and his comments carry weight. For years, stunt performers have pushed the Academy to create an Oscar for their work. Earlier this summer, Academy CEO Bill Kramer said discussions are happening with stunt member voters. Kramer noted a new award was recently added for casting directors, showing willingness to honor more behind-the-scenes roles.
Reynolds’ advocacy comes as the film industry increasingly appreciates stunt performers. The actor compared them to the past masters of silent films. Their physical skills are crucial to bringing action stories alive, Reynolds said. As “Deadpool & Wolverine” nears release, Reynolds is shedding light on how collaboration makes spectacular movie scenes possible. His public support raises awareness of the ongoing debate over stunt recognition at the Academy Awards ceremony.
While it’s unclear if the Oscars will create a new category, Reynolds has brought more attention to this issue. As discussions continue in Hollywood and beyond, many will watch to see if the ceremony evolves to celebrate this important part of movie-making.
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