Stunt performer | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Stunt performers stand in for actors when the script calls for anything dangerous or specialised to be done on a film or TV set.

  • Collaborate with other actors as part of an ensemble.  
  • Portray and interpret roles, using speech, gestures, and body movements, to entertain, inform, or instruct radio, film, television, or live audiences.  
  • Work closely with directors, other actors, and playwrights to find the interpretation most suited to the role.  
  • Perform humorous and serious
Read more about Stunt performer

Stunt performers typically work around 45 to 47 hours per week.

As a Stunt performer you will typically work as a contractor / self-employed.

This occupation tends to be:

  • Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
  • Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading
  • Read more about Stunt performer
    * from ONETonline
    Average salary
    21,899 GBP *
    per year
    * data taken from the Office of National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)
    Average salary for Stunt performer
    • 22,882 GBP
    Average salary for part-time Stunt performer
    Average salary for full-time Stunt performer

    Showing:
    • 7,939 GBP
    • 7,209 GBP
    • 8,737 GBP
    • 21,899 GBP
    • 22,882 GBP
    Salary over time for Stunt performer

    Pay for this role has increased slightly over time
    • 17,050 GBP
    • 17,311 GBP
    • 18,766 GBP
    • 19,443 GBP
    • 20,206 GBP
    • 20,579 GBP
    • 21,899 GBP
    • 21,599 GBP
    • 22,545 GBP
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    Future outlook for Stunt performers

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    Very good outlook
    32 000+ jobs available
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    Very good outlook
    4% yearly wage growth (on average)
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    Balanced outlook
    55% chance of automation in the future

    Stunt performer - Your future job?


    Which qualifications do I need?

    Find out what you need to know in order to become a Stunt performer and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

    In terms of people already doing this job:

    • 45% of people in this role have do not have GCSEs or equivalent qualifications
    • 21% of people in this role have a Bachelor's degree
    • 16% of people in this role have GCSEs or equivalent

    You'll usually need to apply to British Stunt Register's Stunt Grading Scheme. You'll need qualifications and skills across at least 6 different sporting areas in 4 of the following groups:

    • fighting - martial arts or boxing
    • falling - trampolining or high diving
    • riding and driving - horse riding, driving cars or riding motorcycles
    • agility and strength - gymnastics or rock climbing
    • water - swimming or sub-aqua

    The fighting category is compulsory.

    You'll also need at least one year's experience in each of your sporting areas. Throughout your career, you'll need to keep your skills and qualifications up to date.

    Probationary members are encouraged to attend shoots as observers in order to broaden their knowledge of the profession. You could do this by getting experience as an extra or a 'walk-on'.


    Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Stunt performer

    Sports & Exercise

    What soft skills do I need?

    Rise above the competition by brushing up on the 5 most important soft skills you need to become a Stunt performer.
    Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents
    Speaking Talking to others to convey information effectively
    Active Listening Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times
    Social Perceptiveness Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do
    Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems

    What technical skills do I need?

    Technical skills are programmes, softwares and things you need to know in order to be a successful Stunt performer. Check that you know:
    1
    Data base user interface and query software FileMaker Pro
    2
    Electronic mail software Email software; Microsoft Outlook
    3
    Spreadsheet software Microsoft Excel
    4
    Video creation and editing software Apple Final Cut Pro; Motion capture software; YouTube
    5
    Web page creation and editing software Facebook
    Improve your skills today

    Sports & Exercise

    Things to highlight for your Stunt performer interview

    Cooperation Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude. Persistence Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles. Adaptability/Flexibility Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. Dependability Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

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