Tell about yourself and your background! *
Born and raised in Daytona Beach, FL & I joined the Marine Corps weeks after graduating from high school. I traveled the world as an infantryman, a body bearer & a security specialist assisting in high level missions; I had a very unique Marine Corps career. After my active duty ended, I returned to Iraq as part of the global biometrics mission where I stayed for 4 more years.I returned to the United States in 2009 where I set out to finally fulfill my passion for fitness & bodybuilding. No matter where I was in the world, I was always known for my passion & knowledge in fitness. In the process of becoming a competitive bodybuilder, I found myself in an entirely new and amazing journey making a huge impact in the film industry as a stunt performer, an actor, and a celebrity trainer.
What inspired you to become a stunt performer?
When I think of stunts, I think of the physicality and talent required. As I began to learn more about the stunt community I was also surprised to find out about the level of camaraderie that exists. Being a Marine veteran, both of those two things have defined most of my life; physicality being an athlete and camaraderie being part of the USMC brotherhood. Without stunts, entertainment would be dull and boring.
What is your greatest skill as a stunt performer, is there a stunt behind it?
I'm a big guy so I'm not the jump up and spin around kind of guy but I pride myself in being able to improvise, adapt, and overcome. Swimming/water, fire, and driving are my greatest assets to the community. I grew up on the beach swimming and experienced some intense water training in the Corps, spent months learning how to drive both offensively and defensively, and I'll never forget my first fire burn... I was hooked. There was something very surreal about being wrapped by flames. I think it's my no fear attitude that has me loving being a stunt performer so much especially when I'm able to act as a part of it.
What is the best part about being a stunt performer?
The best part about being a stunt performer for me is the collaboration and creativity amongst the other stunt performers and coordinators. Also, pushing myself in new ways and having it showcased on such a large platform for the whole world to see. That's pretty cool stuff! Surreal, actually.
What advice would you give other stunt performers?
The advice I'd give to other stunt performers is to continue to hone your craft and stay ready at all times bc you never know when that phone is going to ring, or when that email is coming your way. And to those who are aspiring to become stunt performers, be the best you can be, document and film everything you do, and if you make it to set, keep your mouth closed, listen, learn, and always keep your eyes peeled. Safety is everything. Becoming part of the stunt community is a privilege and no one owes you anything no matter how amazing you think you are.
Anything else you'd like to tell the community about?
Without going into great detail, becoming a part of the stunt community was such a blessing at a time when I had returned to the states from being overseas as part of the GWOT. The film industry help breathe new life into me and I was fortunate to meet some amazing people who have become lifelong friends.
Please share your social media handles and how we can follow you!
Instagram: @aaronvwilliamson
Please include any links to stunt reels or videos you'd like to share!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CZzjYftjHQm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
