Walking Dead stuntman John Bernecker has died; cast mourns
As word of The Walking Dead stuntman John Bernecker’s death spreads, his friends and coworkers are mourning his loss.
Veteran stuntman John Bernecker has passed away after a tragic on-set accident took place during filming for The Walking Dead.
Bernecker was preparing for a “routine” balcony stunt when he lost his footing and fell over 25 feet to the concrete floor below. He was rushed to Atlanta Medical Center but later succumbed to his injuries. According to reports, Bernecker passed away on Wednesday but had been placed on a ventilator at the family’s request. He was taken off life support on Friday morning.
On Thursday, AMC announced that it was halting production on The Walking Dead’s eighth season pending an investigation.
Members of The Walking Dead cast and crew have posted messages on social media about Bernecker’s loss. Given what we know of the accident, it sounds like members of the cast were present when it happened.
Deep sorrow today, and for every tomorrow. Love, respect, and condolences to johns family, and friends. He will be forever missed.
— Jeffrey Dean Morgan (@JDMorgan) July 14, 2017
I have no words. My heart is absolutely broken for John Bernecker. Please send prayers to his family and friends.
— Austin Amelio (@austin_amelio) July 14, 2017
We are all praying for him, his family, friends and colleagues. https://t.co/03Kj5JLwun
— Gale Anne Hurd (@GunnerGale) July 13, 2017
While the work that stuntmen do on a daily basis is inherently dangerous, OSHA and the actor union SAG-AFTRA report that it has been over 17 years since a stuntman died during filming. Conrad Palmisano, SAG-AFTRA member and longtime stuntman, believes that the stunt industry has become safer than it ever was in the past. “Generally, it’s safer now than it was 20 years ago, and I anticipate it being safer 20 years from now than it was today.”
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Both OSHA and SAG-AFTRA will launch investigations into the accident to determine whether the accident was a result of unsafe working conditions. The investigation must be allowed to run its course, so it’s possible that season 8 premiere could be delayed.