The next time you are watching a film and you see one of the (0) characters jumping out of a plane, off a falling horse, or being blown through a window, spare a thought for the stunt artist. Lots of people think that stunt artists are just ‘extras’ who (1) small, unimportant parts in films and television. Nothing could be (2) from the truth. A stunt artist must (3) the skills of an actor with the physical abilities of a first-(4) athlete. He or she must he extremely fit, and highly trained in a number of activities like scuba-diving, horse riding, martial arts or parachuting.

It is not easy to get started in a career as a stunt performer. Film and television producers look (5) experience and proven ability, so it is unlikely that they will take on a complete newcomer. However, because of the (6) of their profession, stunt artists tend to retire early. This means that new performers must be employed, or there will he no one to take over when the present generation quits.

Even when a stunt artist becomes well-(7), the work is not regular. It may sometimes be necessary to travel to the other side of the world for a job which involves (8) hours and great physical danger. It is not a glamorous occupation (9) . Unlike the famous actors for (10) they sometimes risk their lives, few stunt artists are recognised in the street by adoring fans.