RIP Brad Allan (1973-2021)

It’s extremely sad to hear that the talented and much loved second unit director, stunt coordinator, performer and action cinema veteran Brad Allan has passed away at a tragically young age of 48.

His work will continue to be revered, from becoming the first westerner to join the legendary Jackie Chan Stunt Team - inspiring many in the process - and his fight scene with Jackie Chan in Gorgeous is still cited as one of the most impressive demonstrations of choreography, timing and physical dexterity, to this day.

Not forgetting the classic and highly influential 1999 documentary, Jackie Chan: My Stunts, it not only unveiled some of the team's tricks and techniques, but also introduced many audiences to this young, talented westerner whose career was only just beginning.

Through his undeniable physical skill-set, backed up by intense training, he broke down barriers and proved himself to (arguably) the best and most demanding action filmmakers and performers in the world. This, in turn, showed others that they too could aspire to work with the best, if they could meet a high standard, while being open to constant learning and development.

He would go on to become a highly respected Hollywood stunt coordinator and second unit director on Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, the Kingsman franchise and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. He had an incredible and influential career, cut tragically short, but he certainly made a giant mark. I never had the opportunity to speak to him for the Life of Action book series, but it was trendsetting work such as his which inspired it in the first place. His legacy will certainly live on. RIP Brad (1973-2021).