Stuntman

What does a Stuntman do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A stuntman is responsible for performing risky and physically demanding scenes in film, TV, commercials, and stage performances. Tasks can include falls, fights, car stunts, fire scenes, advanced climbing, and water stunts. Safety is always the highest priority, and every moment is carefully planned in collaboration with the director and stunt coordinator. Work often takes place on filming locations, both indoors and outdoors, with the work environment varying greatly depending on the production. Irregular hours, travel, and physical wear are common in the profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, stuntman salaries have remained relatively stable. In 2022, the average salary was 36,200 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average decreased slightly to 36 000 SEK, and in 2024, the salary has decreased further to 35,200 SEK. This represents a total decline of about 5.5% over the three-year period. This trend reflects a slightly decreased demand for stunt assignments and increased competition within the industry, where more seek the profession without a corresponding increase in major productions. Despite the slight decline, salary levels remain stable, and gender differences are non-existent, which is uncommon in cultural professions.

Stuntman salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35,200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 35,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 212 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn as much as men
• Regional differences: No clear data

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a stuntman is often individual and based on a combination of physical skills, specialized training, and practical experience. No formal university education is required, but many undergo specialized stunt courses, martial arts, gymnastics, or parkour training, and internships with established stunt coordinators. Certifications and safety training are important to minimize risks during filming.

• Specialized stunt training: 6–12 months, often at private schools
• Courses in martial arts, gymnastics, or parkour: ongoing further training
• Certification in safety and first aid: required by many employers
• Internship with an experienced stunt coordinator: common entry requirement
• Good physical health and movement skills: fundamental prerequisites

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, extra pay is often offered for particularly risky tasks, free training opportunities, and sometimes bonuses for longer productions. Insurance, including accident and life insurance, is common and often a requirement from many employers. Some also receive travel allowances and per diems when working abroad or at different locations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for stunt roles and assignments is fierce, especially within larger productions where experienced performers are often prioritized. One of the biggest challenges is maintaining physical ability and adapting to new techniques and safety standards. The risk of injury is always present, demanding both mental and physical resilience. The project-based nature of the industry also means periods of uncertain income and irregular working hours. Success requires a strong network and the ability to promote one's skills.

Tips for aspiring Stuntmen

To succeed as a stuntman, it’s important to build a strong physical foundation early and develop a high level of body control, for example through gymnastics or martial arts training. Endurance and perseverance are crucial, as competition is tough and the path often involves many rejections before landing the first assignment. Safety awareness is essential—always prioritize your own and others' safety on set. Flexibility and adaptability help when work environments and tasks can change quickly. Social skills and the ability to collaborate with different professionals are also important, as the work is team-based where trust and communication are vital.

Key facts about Stuntmen

• Salary range: 35,200–35,300 SEK/month
• Gender differences: None – women and men have equal pay
• Educational path: Specialized stunt training and internships
• Work environment: Risky, varied, often outdoors
• Job openings in the profession: 620 (2024)

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to stunt coordinator, responsible for planning and ensuring stunt sequences for entire productions. Others choose to specialize in specific disciplines such as car stunts or fire scenes, or to train new stunt performers. The employment service assesses the future outlook as stable, with continued demand for stuntmen in larger film and TV productions. Digital effects have reduced some practical stunt tasks, but the need for experienced stunt performers remains, especially in action and adventure genres.

Frequently asked questions about Stuntmen

• What does a Stuntman earn?
  - The average salary is 35,200 SEK per month, with very small salary differences between men and women.
• What education is required to become a stuntman?
  - No formal university education is required, but specialized stunt training and internships are common.
• What is the work environment like for a stuntman?
  - The work environment is often risky, varied, and can involve physical strain as well as irregular hours.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - No, women and men practically earn the same salary within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for stuntmen?
  - Demand is stable, especially in film and TV, and there are approximately 620 job openings in the profession.
• Is there an opportunity to specialize?
  - Yes, many choose to focus on specific types of stunts or further train as stunt coordinators.