Tell about yourself, Daniel!
I grew up in Ohio and have been involved in extreme sports since I was a kid. I pursued a life of skating, snowboarding, dirtbikes, and later motorcycle racing.
I had won a few regional championships and decided it was time to pursue other interests. I had no idea that movie stunts would be one of them but the timing was perfect.
What inspired you to become a stunt person?
It started with my motorcycle racing career. I got connected with Mr. Fike to do motorcycle stunts in my first film and then I branched out from there.
I didn’t really follow a “typical” route to become a stunt person. I just have a unique set of skills from skydiving, scuba diving, BASE jumping, rock climbing, ice climbing and weapons handling.
Those are all things I enjoy doing for fun. It was after my first film that I had to learn how to fall, fight choreography and reactions to participate in future projects.
What is your greatest skill as a stunt performer, is there a story behind it?
I think anything motorcycle related. I enjoy the high speed chase scenes, splitting or weaving traffic and doing wheelies, etc.
Motorcycles are a passion of mine and I ride whenever I can to keep my skills up in that department.
What is the best part about being a stunt performer?
I think it’s super fun! I enjoy being on set and meeting new people.
I like how every film is different so I’m always getting to do something new. That keeps it really interesting for me.
What advice would you give other stunt people?
Any role in this industry is going to take work.
Whatever you put into it is what you’re going to get out of it. Just stay safe and don’t attempt a stunt that you’re not confident doing.
Anything else you would like to tell the community about?
I’m excited to work and to continue to branch out with my abilities.
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9300436/