Stars Who Openly Admitted to Using Stunt Doubles for Even the Simplest Scenes

The allure of Hollywood action often relies on the perceived bravado of leading stars who claim to perform their own death-defying feats. However, a significant number of A-list celebrities have broken the industry silence by openly admitting they prefer to leave the physical heavy lifting to professional stunt performers. Whether motivated by insurance requirements, past injuries, or a simple desire for self-preservation, these actors acknowledge that their presence on screen is primarily for performance rather than athleticism. This transparency highlights the often-overlooked contributions of the stunt community, whose members risk life and limb to make cinematic moments possible. From running across uneven terrain to executing complex fight choreography, these 48 stars prioritize safety over ego in their professional careers.

Danny Trejo

Danny Trejo is famously candid about his refusal to perform his own stunts in action movies. He believes that actors who insist on doing their own stunts are being selfish and potentially risking the jobs of the entire crew. For his roles in films like ‘Machete’, he relies on trained professionals to ensure that high-impact scenes are executed safely. Trejo often jokes that he does not want to risk a multimillion-dollar production just to prove his toughness. This practical approach has allowed him to maintain a remarkably long and healthy career in the entertainment industry.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is another Hollywood veteran who prefers to let the professionals handle the physical demands of a role. He has stated in multiple interviews that he sees no reason to risk his health for a scene that a double can perform more effectively. This approach has been consistent throughout his work in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ and the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy. Jackson emphasizes that his job is to deliver a performance through dialogue and character work rather than athleticism. He remains one of the most prolific actors in the industry by prioritizing safety and longevity.

Ryan Reynolds

After sustaining several injuries earlier in his career, Ryan Reynolds decided to pull back from performing high-risk stunts. During the filming of ‘Green Lantern’, he suffered a neck injury that changed his perspective on physical performance. He now works closely with doubles like Alex Kyshkovych to bring characters like ‘Deadpool’ to life on the big screen. Reynolds openly admits that while he used to want to do everything himself, he now understands the value of a skilled stunt team. This shift allows him to focus on the comedic timing and emotional beats of films like ‘Free Guy’.

Dwayne Johnson

Despite his muscular physique and background in professional wrestling, Dwayne Johnson relies heavily on his long-time stunt double, Tanoai Reed. Johnson frequently praises Reed for taking the hard hits and performing the more dangerous maneuvers in his action-packed films. Whether it is ‘Fast & Furious’ or ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’, the actor acknowledges that his double is an essential part of his career. Johnson views the partnership as a collaborative effort to ensure the best possible visual outcome for the audience. He has even gifted Reed expensive vehicles as a token of appreciation for his years of service.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence has been open about her lack of natural coordination when it comes to action sequences. During the production of ‘The Hunger Games’ series, she relied on stunt doubles for the more physically demanding moments. Lawrence has jokingly stated that she is not a “badass” in real life and prefers to stay out of harm’s way on set. By using doubles for climbing and falling, she ensures she can remain healthy for the duration of a long shoot. This honesty has become a hallmark of her public persona and her approach to filmmaking.

Bryce Dallas Howard

Bryce Dallas Howard famously used a stunt double for several scenes in ‘Jurassic World’ that involved running through the jungle. While she did perform some of the running in high heels herself, professional doubles handled the more dangerous terrain to avoid ankle injuries. Howard has spoken about the technical difficulty of those scenes and the necessity of expert help. She values the expertise that stunt performers bring to a production, especially when the environment is unpredictable. Her transparency helped highlight the physical toll that even simple running scenes can take on an actor.

Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg frequently utilizes stunt doubles to maintain the high-octane pace of his action films. While he stays in peak physical condition, he acknowledges that professional stuntmen are better equipped for high-impact collisions. In films like ‘Uncharted’ and ‘Transformers: Age of Extinction’, doubles help execute the more complex movements. Wahlberg has expressed that his primary goal is to provide a convincing performance while staying injury-free for his family. He maintains a close professional relationship with the stunt teams on all his major projects.

Chris Pratt

Chris Pratt worked closely with stunt double Tony McFarr throughout his tenure in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ and ‘Jurassic World’ franchises. Pratt has been vocal on social media about the importance of McFarr’s work in making his characters look heroic. He admits that many of the falls and rolls seen on screen are the work of his double rather than himself. By delegating these tasks, Pratt can focus on the improvisational comedy and character development he is known for. He often credits his stunt team for the successful execution of his most famous action sequences.

Chris Hemsworth

Chris Hemsworth may look like a god on screen, but he relies on stunt double Bobby Holland Hanton for the most taxing ‘Thor’ sequences. Hemsworth has admitted that the physical toll of playing a superhero is immense and that Hanton handles the most dangerous maneuvers. The two have developed a close bond, with Hanton often following the same rigorous diet and exercise routine as the actor. Hemsworth openly credits Hanton for the athleticism displayed in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’. This partnership ensures that the character remains physically imposing while the actor stays safe.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson has utilized stunt double Heidi Moneymaker for her role as Black Widow across multiple films. Johansson has praised Moneymaker for her incredible athletic ability and the seamless way she integrates into the character’s movements. While Johansson trains for her roles, she acknowledges that the most complex acrobatics are handled by a professional. In ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’, doubles were especially important as Johansson was pregnant during filming. She continues to advocate for the recognition of stunt performers in the film industry.

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. relied on a dedicated stunt team to handle the physical demands of playing Iron Man for over a decade. He has often spoken about how the suits and the action sequences in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ require specialized skills. Downey Jr. used Eric Oram as a consultant and double for various fight scenes to ensure they looked authentic. He acknowledges that at his age, it is more practical to let younger, trained professionals take the physical risks. This allowed him to focus on the witty dialogue and emotional arc of Tony Stark.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy is known for his intense roles, but he frequently uses stunt double Jacob Tomuri for his most physical scenes. In ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’, Tomuri performed many of the high-speed stunts that made the film a visual masterpiece. Hardy has expressed deep respect for Tomuri’s work and has even brought him onto the red carpet at premieres. The actor admits that while he enjoys the physical aspects of acting, the expertise of a stunt double is irreplaceable. This collaboration helps maintain the gritty realism that Hardy’s films are known for.

Vin Diesel

Vin Diesel relies on a team of stunt professionals to handle the automotive and physical mayhem of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. He has worked with stunt double Troy Robinson for many years to execute the high-speed chases and hand-to-hand combat. Diesel views the stunt team as part of his extended family and frequently highlights their contributions in promotional materials. He acknowledges that the scale of his films makes it impossible for him to perform every action safely. By using doubles, he ensures the production stays on schedule and avoids costly injuries.

Sebastian Stan

Sebastian Stan has been open about the use of stunt doubles for his role as the Winter Soldier. While he performs as much of the hand-to-hand combat as possible, he relies on professionals for the more dangerous wire work and falls. Stan has noted that the speed and precision required for Marvel fight scenes often necessitate a trained expert. He frequently credits his doubles, like James Young and Greg Rementer, for making the character’s combat style look so distinctive. This honesty helps demystify the process of creating a high-budget action sequence.

Brie Larson

Brie Larson utilized two stunt doubles, Renae Moneymaker and Joanna Bennett, to bring ‘Captain Marvel’ to life. Larson has stated that she trained extensively for the role but recognized her limitations when it came to complex stunt work. She has shared behind-the-scenes footage and photos to highlight the work of her doubles. Larson believes it is important for audiences to know that an entire team is responsible for the character’s powers and physical prowess. This transparency emphasizes the collaborative nature of modern superhero filmmaking.

Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie performed many of her own stunts in ‘Suicide Squad’, but she still relied on professional doubles for the most extreme moments. For the role of Harley Quinn, stunt performer Ingrid Kleinig handled the more dangerous aerial maneuvers and underwater sequences. Robbie has praised Kleinig for her bravery and skill in executing scenes that were beyond the actor’s comfort level. She acknowledges that using a double is a necessary part of keeping a major production moving forward. Robbie’s willingness to share credit has earned her respect within the stunt community.

Gal Gadot

Gal Gadot utilized stunt doubles extensively while filming ‘Wonder Woman’, particularly because she was pregnant during part of the production. She has spoken about the necessity of having experts handle the high-impact combat and wire work required for the character. Gadot views her doubles as essential partners in creating the image of a powerful Amazonian warrior. She often expresses gratitude for their ability to make the action look effortless and heroic. This approach ensures that the character remains a symbol of strength without compromising the actor’s health.

Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill is known for his dedication to physical roles, but he uses doubles for specific technical aspects of ‘The Witcher’. While he performs most of his own sword fighting, he acknowledges that specialized stunts like horse work or high falls are best left to experts. Cavill has stated that safety is the most important factor on any set he works on. He values the technical precision that stunt performers bring to the dark fantasy world of the series. By using doubles for these scenes, he maintains the high quality of the production’s action.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck utilized veteran stunt double Rich Cetrone for his portrayal of Batman in the ‘DC Extended Universe’. Affleck has admitted that the physical requirements of the character were grueling and that Cetrone was vital for the fight sequences. He has praised the stunt team for their ability to move in the heavy Batsuit and perform complex maneuvers. Affleck acknowledges that at this stage in his career, he is happy to let the professionals handle the punches. This collaboration resulted in some of the most visceral combat scenes in the franchise’s history.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield worked closely with stunt double William Spencer to develop the unique movement style of his Peter Parker in ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’. Garfield has been very open about the fact that many of the wall-crawling and swinging scenes were performed by Spencer. He credits Spencer’s background in skateboarding for the character’s agile and unconventional fighting style. Garfield has expressed immense admiration for the physical risks his double took to bring the character to life. He remains a vocal supporter of the stunt community’s efforts to gain more recognition.

Tom Holland

Despite his background in gymnastics and dance, Tom Holland uses multiple stunt doubles for his ‘Spider-Man’ films. He has admitted that while he can do many of the flips, the studio often prefers he uses a double for insurance reasons. Holland works with Greg Townley and Luke Scott to ensure the character’s movements are as dynamic as possible. He frequently shares behind-the-scenes content that showcases the hard work of his stunt team. Holland understands that protecting the lead actor is a priority for any big-budget Marvel production.

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford has a long history of performing his own stunts, but he has become more reliant on doubles in his later years. During the filming of ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’, doubles were used for the more strenuous physical activities. Ford has acknowledged that his age makes it more practical to step back from some of the more dangerous leaps and falls. He has often worked with legendary stuntman Vic Armstrong to maintain the character’s rugged image. Ford’s honesty about using doubles reflects his pragmatic approach to his long career.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger relied on stunt double Peter Kent for over a dozen films, including ‘The Terminator’ and ‘Predator’. Schwarzenegger has admitted that while he was a champion bodybuilder, he lacked the specific training required for cinematic stunts. Kent often took the hits and performed the dangerous falls that the actor’s insurance would not allow. Schwarzenegger has praised Kent for his loyalty and for helping to create some of the most iconic action moments in cinema. This long-term partnership was a cornerstone of Schwarzenegger’s success as an action star.

Liam Neeson

Liam Neeson has become a modern action icon, but he is quick to point out that he does not do his own stunts. He works almost exclusively with stunt double Mark Vanselow to handle the fights and falls in his films like ‘Taken’. Neeson has stated in interviews that he is an actor, not an athlete, and he prefers to leave the physical risks to experts. He values Vanselow’s ability to mirror his movements perfectly, creating a seamless transition on screen. This partnership has allowed Neeson to continue starring in action films well into his seventies.

John Travolta

John Travolta has used stunt double Nick Loren for nearly two decades across numerous film projects. Travolta has openly discussed the fact that Loren handles the more physical and dangerous aspects of his roles. Whether it is a fight scene or a high-speed chase, the actor trusts Loren to deliver a safe and convincing performance. Travolta believes that having a consistent double helps maintain the continuity of his characters’ physical presence. He has even integrated Loren into his personal life as a close friend and collaborator.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt has used several stunt doubles throughout his career to handle the more demanding scenes in movies like ‘Troy’ and ‘World War Z’. He has acknowledged that while he stays fit, the technical skill of a stunt performer is superior for specific maneuvers. In ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’, he ironically played a stuntman while utilizing real stunt professionals for the actual action. Pitt has expressed that he is comfortable with the use of doubles to ensure a movie’s success. He prioritizes the creative vision of the film over the need to perform every physical feat.

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman relied on stunt doubles for the most intense physical moments of his long run as Wolverine. While he is known for his incredible physical transformations, he has stated that the high-impact stunts are handled by professionals like Richard Bradshaw. Jackman has been honest about the toll the character took on his body and the necessity of using doubles for safety. He credits the stunt team for making the character’s berserker rage look authentic and dangerous. This allowed Jackman to focus on the emotional depth of the character over nearly two decades.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron utilized stunt doubles for the more physically demanding comedic and action scenes in ‘Baywatch’. While he underwent a massive physical transformation for the role, he admitted that professional help was needed for the dangerous water stunts. Efron has expressed that he is happy to defer to experts when a scene involves significant risk. He values the safety protocols that stunt teams bring to a set, especially during high-speed sequences. This approach has helped him transition from musical theater to more physically demanding film roles.

Benedict Cumberbatch

Benedict Cumberbatch used a stunt double for the more acrobatic and combat-heavy scenes in ‘Doctor Strange’. He has stated that while he enjoyed the training, he recognized the superior skill of the professional stunt performers. Cumberbatch believes that the visual spectacle of the film is enhanced by the precision of trained athletes. He has been vocal about the respect he has for the stunt team’s ability to work in complex costumes and harnesses. This honesty highlights the technical challenges of bringing a sorcerer to the big screen.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet utilized stunt and body doubles for various scenes throughout her career, including the challenging production of ‘Titanic’. She has spoken about the physical difficulty of working in cold water and the importance of having professional support. In more recent projects like ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’, she worked with specialists to handle the intense underwater filming requirements. Winslet prioritizes her health and the quality of the performance above doing every stunt herself. She is known for her pragmatic and professional attitude toward all aspects of filmmaking.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore became much more cautious about performing her own stunts after an injury on the set of ‘Santa Clarita Diet’. She suffered a concussion during a simple scene where she had to jump onto someone’s back. Since then, she has been open about her reliance on stunt doubles for even basic physical movements. Barrymore has stated that she no longer feels the need to take unnecessary risks for a role. She values the expertise of her stunt team and ensures they are credited for their vital contributions to her projects.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon used stunt double Marni Eng for the more physically taxing scenes in the film ‘Wild’. While the role involved significant hiking, the more dangerous terrain and falls were handled by Eng to protect the actress. Witherspoon has praised the stunt community for their ability to blend in and support the lead actor’s performance. She acknowledges that using a double allows her to focus on the emotional journey of her characters. This transparency has helped fans understand the logistical realities of filming in remote locations.

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman utilized stunt doubles for the more demanding physical sequences in ‘Aquaman’ and ‘The Northman’. She has expressed that while she likes to be involved in the action, some scenes are too risky for a lead actor. Kidman values the collaboration between actors and the stunt department to create a cohesive character. She has been open about the use of doubles for scenes involving heavy weaponry or complex wire work. This allows her to maintain a high level of performance across a wide variety of film genres.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz relied on stunt doubles for many of the high-speed sequences in ‘Knight and Day’. While she did some of the motorcycle work herself, professional riders handled the most dangerous maneuvers. Diaz has spoken about the thrill of action films but also the necessity of using experts to avoid delays in production. She has a high level of respect for the stunt performers who make her look like an action hero on screen. Her honesty about the process highlights the teamwork required for modern blockbuster filmmaking.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson utilized multiple stunt doubles throughout the filming of the ‘Harry Potter’ series. Because of child labor laws and the complexity of the magical action, doubles were essential for the production. Watson has acknowledged that many of the more dangerous escapes and falls were performed by these professionals. She has expressed gratitude for the doubles who helped her character, Hermione Granger, appear brave and capable. This approach ensured that the young cast remained safe throughout the decade-long production process.

Mark Ruffalo

Mark Ruffalo utilizes stunt and motion-capture doubles for his portrayal of the Hulk in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’. He has stated that while he performs the facial capture, the physical stunts are often handled by specialists. Ruffalo is open about the fact that his version of the character is a collaborative digital and physical effort. He acknowledges the immense talent of the stunt performers who provide the raw movement for the character. This honesty helps audiences understand the complex technology behind modern superhero films.

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd relies on stunt doubles for the more athletic and combat-heavy scenes in the ‘Ant-Man’ franchise. He has jokingly admitted that he is not as physically capable as his superhero counterpart. Rudd works closely with his stunt team to ensure that the character’s shrinking and growing effects are matched with realistic movement. He frequently credits the stunt performers for the success of the film’s many action sequences. This self-deprecating honesty has made him a fan favorite in the Marvel community.

Chris Evans

Chris Evans utilized stunt double Sam Hargrave for many of the iconic shield-throwing and combat scenes in ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’. Evans has stated that the choreography was so complex that it required a professional level of athleticism. He has praised Hargrave for his ability to embody the character’s strength and agility. While Evans performed as much of the action as possible, he recognized the necessity of a double for the most dangerous hits. This partnership helped define the gritty and grounded combat style of the character.

Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig is known for performing many of his own stunts as James Bond, but he has become more open about using doubles after several serious injuries. He suffered a ruptured ACL and an ankle injury that required surgery during his tenure as 007. Craig has acknowledged that using professional doubles for the most high-risk scenes is a logical choice for the production’s safety. He works with world-class stunt performers to ensure the action remains at the highest possible standard. His willingness to admit his physical limits has been seen as a sign of professional maturity.

Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy uses stunt doubles for many of the physical comedy and action sequences in films like ‘Spy’ and ‘The Boss’. She has stated that while she enjoys being physical, she prefers to let experts handle the falls and collisions. McCarthy values the stunt team’s ability to make her characters’ mishaps look both realistic and funny. She has often highlighted the work of her double, Luci Romberg, in public interviews. This transparency shows that even comedic roles require a high degree of technical physical support.

Sofía Vergara

Sofía Vergara utilized a stunt double for various physical scenes in the series ‘Modern Family’ and the drama ‘Griselda’. She has been vocal about the fact that she is not naturally athletic and prefers to avoid physical risk on set. For ‘Griselda’, she used a double for scenes involving physical altercations and car maneuvers. Vergara acknowledges that her primary focus is on the performance and the character’s emotional state. By using doubles, she ensures that the production remains safe and efficient.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman was at the center of a public discussion regarding her use of a dance double in the film ‘Black Swan’. While she trained extensively and performed many of the shots herself, professional ballerina Sarah Lane handled the most complex sequences. Portman and the production team eventually acknowledged the vital role that Lane played in the final product. The actress has expressed respect for the level of skill required to perform professional-level ballet. This situation highlighted the importance of transparency regarding the use of doubles in specialized roles.

Jason Momoa

Jason Momoa relies on stunt double Kim Fardy for the most dangerous aspects of his role as ‘Aquaman’. Despite his background in athletics and his imposing presence, Momoa acknowledges that certain stunts are too risky for the lead actor. He has shared many photos on social media with Fardy, calling him a vital part of the character’s success. Momoa values the technical expertise that Fardy brings to the underwater and combat sequences. This collaboration ensures that the film’s action is both espectacular and safe for everyone involved.

Jeremy Renner

Jeremy Renner became a vocal advocate for using stunt doubles after breaking both of his arms on the set of ‘Tag’. The injury occurred during a relatively simple stunt involving falling chairs, proving that even mundane scenes can be dangerous. Since then, Renner has been more cautious and relies on his stunt team for high-risk maneuvers in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’. He has praised the efficiency and skill of the performers who have stepped in for him. This experience changed his perspective on the necessity of stunt professionals in every aspect of filmmaking.

Elizabeth Olsen

Elizabeth Olsen has stated that she prefers to use stunt doubles for the more physically demanding or frightening scenes in her Marvel projects. She has been open about the fact that she finds wire work and high falls to be outside of her comfort zone. Olsen believes that if a professional can do it better and more safely, they should be the ones to do it. She works closely with her doubles to ensure the character’s movements remain consistent. This practical approach allows her to focus on the psychological depth of her performance as Wanda Maximoff.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña utilized stunt doubles for the acrobatic and combat-heavy scenes in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ and ‘Avatar’. She has spoken about the physical strain of long production schedules and the importance of having a skilled stunt team. Saldana acknowledges that the technical precision of a stunt performer is essential for the high-speed action of sci-fi films. She values the safety and expertise they provide, allowing her to stay healthy for her family. Her transparency has helped shed light on the physical demands of playing extraterrestrial characters.

Karen Gillan

Karen Gillan worked with stunt doubles for her roles in ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ and the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’. She has admitted that she is not naturally “badass” and relies on experts to execute the most complex fight moves. Gillan has shared videos of her stunt training to show the effort required, while also crediting her doubles for the final result. She believes that acknowledging the stunt team is a matter of professional respect. This honesty has endeared her to both the stunt community and her fans.

Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu utilized stunt doubles for the high-intensity martial arts sequences in ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Kill Bill: Volume 1’. While she has a background in martial arts training, she has stated that the cinematic stunts are best handled by dedicated professionals. Liu acknowledges that the speed and safety requirements of a film set make doubles a necessity. She has expressed deep admiration for the stunt performers who helped establish her as an action star. This collaborative effort helped create some of the most memorable fight scenes of the early 2000s.

Tell us what you think about these actors using stunt doubles in the comments.