What has been the biggest highlight of your career?
There have been a few milestones: The Last Samurai, Nacho Libre, Hot Rod, Push... as they were big growing movies for me and each at different stages of my career in both performing and stunt coordinating.
I won two Taurus Stunt Awards, was nominated for several, and was mentored by Nick Powell who taught me a lot. But Marco Polo and Warrior especially were the high lights. Warrior (HBO Cinemax) had the most profound effect on me.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned over the years as a stunt coordinator?
Never think you are above it all and know it all.
Always be humble and have the right people around you. We are always in the trenches with our brothers and sisters, so to keep them safe, always have the right people around.
What are the greatest qualities you seek out in a stunt performer?
Obviously skill, but if you are the absolute best and you're a complete jackass then I'd rather pass and get a really good performer who I like and is a good person who I would like being around for a whole day or on a run of a show in another country.
Life is too short to have to be around asshats for any duration of time. Or untrustworthy people… I just don’t need them… ethical and good people.
What advice would you give up and coming stunt performers?
It's hard sometimes as you’ll be in compromising situations.
Be the master of your craft… learn about the different aspects, it will keep you safe and keep your brothers and sisters safe.
Educate yourself so you don’t just trust blindly.
What do you love most about the stunt community?
Just like any industry... there are asshats and good peeps… and we all come from all walks of life, and I find that fascinating.
Different skill sets, different cultures, different worlds, but we all have the same language when it comes to our craft.
