‘Walking Dead’ Season 8 Resumes Production After Fatal Stuntman Accident
The stunt community and loved ones of Walking Dead performer John Bernecker endured a tragic loss over the weekend, as an on-set accident hospitalized the stuntman and led to his death. The series naturally shut down production on the eighth season, but has since (temporarily) resumed.
Deadline confirms that The Walking Dead Season 8 has returned to production five days after shutting down over Bernecker’s accident. The 33-year old stunt performer fell thirty feet from a balcony during a fight sequence with Dwight (Austin Amelio), narrowly missing the safety mat. After treatment and being placed on life support for his injuries, Bernecker passed away surrounded by friends and family.
As the incident – which was officially ruled an accident – becomes one of the more notable stunt-related deaths in an American production for some years, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and SAG-AFTRA have launched investigations into Bernecker’s death, the former of which could take up to six months to complete. Even as production resumes on the eighth season, the majority of cast are still expected to break once again for this week’s Comic-Con 2017 panel, which may or may not contain some acknowledgment for Bernecker.
You can also view a number of cast and crew dedications to Bernecker, and stay tuned for the latest.