Simon Crane

An Unorthodox Path to Hollywood’s Stunt Glory

A Unique Start in the Circus

Simon Crane’s journey from a British college student studying law to a highly regarded stuntman in Hollywood is not your typical career trajectory. Dissatisfied with the idea of a career in law, he sought excitement and challenge in a completely different realm: the circus. Crane's time in the circus was instrumental, helping him develop essential acrobatic skills that would later form the cornerstone of his career in stunt performance.

‍Mastering the Art of Stunts

In Great Britain, becoming a stunt performer demands rigorous training and proficiency in multiple disciplines. Crane rose to the challenge by becoming an instructor in six sports: karate, fencing, gymnastics, high diving, parachuting, and scuba diving. His wide-ranging skills and unyielding commitment set the stage for his entrance into the world of movie stunts.

Section 3: The Bond Connection and Breaking Records

Crane’s breakthrough into mainstream cinema came with the prestigious James Bond franchise. Beginning with "A View to a Kill", he quickly advanced to become Timothy Dalton's stunt double in "The Living Daylights", and eventually the 2nd Unit Stunt Coordinator for "Licence to Kill". His most audacious stunt, a million-dollar feat of sliding between two jets for the film "Cliffhanger", earned him a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.

‍From Stunt Performer to Stunt Coordinator

With a reputation for audacity and expertly choreographed stunts, Crane was appointed as Stunt Coordinator for "GoldenEye". From then on, he has continued to work as a Stunt Coordinator or 2nd Unit Director on all his projects, cementing his place in the industry. His work on "Unbroken" even brought him a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award.

Collaborations with Hollywood’s A-listers

Crane's ability to deliver thrilling and high-impact action sequences has led to repeated collaborations with big-name actors like Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. His filmography includes popular titles such as "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider", "Troy", "Salt", and "World War Z”.

Recognition from The Academy

In 2015, Crane received an invitation to become a member of The Academy, a nod to his substantial contributions to the film industry. Although the Oscars do not yet recognize stunt professionals with a specific category, Crane's inclusion in The Academy signals growing recognition of the importance of their roles.

Conclusion: A Career Built on Daring and Skill

From his unconventional start in a circus to world-record stunts and Hollywood acclaim, Simon Crane stands out as a pivotal figure in the world of cinematic stunts. His story showcases the fruits of talent, dedication, and an undying passion for adrenaline-charged action.