Tell about yourself and your background! *
I was born into a gymnastics family. I did gymnastics for years and have been a coach since I was 15. Over the years I’ve incorporated cheerleading, hip hop, tumbling, and Acro intro my repertoire.
What inspired you to become a stunt performer?
I am not a conformist. I don’t want a 9-5. I want to do what is exciting and exhilarating. What gets me interested and focused. A normal job will never give me that. The only time I have felt that feeling is when I’m doing stunts. I want to improve on my skills and learn from others that are more skilled than me. Stunts is where I found my tribe. I always felt like a weirdo but little did I know there’s a whole stunt world filled with weirdos like me!
What is your greatest skill as a stunt performer, is there a stunt behind it?
My greatest skill as a performer is body awareness. I think that can translate in a lot of ways in stunts. I think my strengths are high falls, fire, ratchet, and wires. I plan to take all of my weaknesses and train them to the point that they are also strengths.
What is the best part about being a stunt performer?
The best part about being a stunt performer is doing exactly what it is that you have a burning passion for. When you’re doing what you love, it doesn’t feel like work. Getting a paycheck at the end is just a bonus.
Tell your all-time favorite stunt story!
While I was on set for a commercial, I was the only girl on the stunt team. The director wanted a female presence throughout so every time I was blown up, thrown off a truck, shot….. name it! I just got to go back to hair and makeup and do it all over again. I was ecstatic to be able to do so many different things all in one project.
What advice would you give other stunt performers?
Safety is priority. Your safety and the safety of those working with you. I use this as an example because I used to be the person that would say “I’m not scared of anything! Bring it on”. As I’ve matured I realize that’s the wrong mindset. The goal should be getting the BEST scenes while keeping everyone involved safe.
Anything else you'd like to tell the community about?
Some of my favorite people I’ve ever met have been stuntmen and women and I’m so grateful to have found what it is that truly makes me happy! I’m always inspired by the community and their many versatile talents. I will ALWAYS rejoice in my peer’s success.
Please share your social media handles and how we can follow you!
Ariel Lee on Facebook and @Rztinkertank on Instagram
