Production on The Walking Dead’s eighth season has temporarily been halted following the death of a stuntman.
“We are saddened to report that John Bernecker, a talented stuntman for ‘The Walking Dead’ and numerous other television shows and films, suffered serious injuries from a tragic accident on set,” AMC said in a statement following the accident on Wednesday. “He was immediately transported to an Atlanta hospital and we have temporarily shut down production. We are keeping John and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Bernecker, 33, was a veteran stuntman and fight choreographer who has worked on projects such as The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 and Part 2, and Logan. On Wednesday, July 12, he reportedly fell more than 20 feet from a balcony while performing a stunt on The Walking Dead set in Georgia. He was taken off of life support the following day.
Following his tragic loss, members of the cast took to social media to share their condolences and support Bernecker’s family.
No words can express my sadness for John Bernecker and his family. Thank you all for having them in your thoughts and prayers also.
— Lauren Cohan (@LaurenCohan) July 14, 2017
John Bernecker’s passing is so deeply tragic; such a great loss. My sincerest condolences & prayers to his family & the stunt community. RIP https://t.co/7MKmebOnjL
— Danai Gurira (@DanaiGurira) July 15, 2017
rip john bernecker, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. such a horrible thing to have happened.
— chandler riggs (@chandlerriggs) July 15, 2017
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
Everyone remember #JohnBernecker Don’t we ever forget. ????
— Alanna Masterson (@AlannaMasterson) July 14, 2017
Sending love to the friends and family of #JohnBernecker – please know that we are here for you in this time of mourning. pic.twitter.com/t36Fd9ZjTx
— Ross Marquand (@RossMarquand) July 14, 2017
Terrible news from the set of The Walking Dead. Deepest condolences to John Bernecker’s family. My thoughts are with everyone down there.
— David Morrissey (@davemorrissey64) July 14, 2017
“Our production is heartbroken by the tragic loss of John Bernecker,” executive producer Scott Gimple said in a statement released Friday night. “John’s work on The Walking Dead and dozens of other movies and shows will continue to entertain and excite audiences for generations. We are grateful for his contributions, and all of us send our condolences, love, and prayers to John’s family and friends.”
Author
