Tell about yourself and stunts, Jake!
I am a 4th generation Los Angelino and grew up with both parents working in the entertainment industry. I went to the movies a lot and I especially loved action films!
At the age of 5 I trained in Tai Kwon Do with legendary stuntman, Master Simon Rhee, earning my junior blackbelt some years later. At that time, my plan was to become a pro baseball player. At 9 I had my first stunt job, playing the 1st baseman for the Angels (my actual Pony League Club Baseball team!) in BAD NEWS BEARS. This job earned me enough set time to get my SAG card.
Then, at 14, I met legendary stuntman John Moio who took me under his wing and became my mentor in stunts and life. This was a huge turning point for me. John trained a number of us in Bob Yerkes' backyard - there he honed our skills and gave us sage advice about the stunt community and the industry as a whole.
I owe a debt of gratitude to both Simon and John for giving me, and countless others, the foundation to become a Hollywood stuntman, one of the coolest jobs in the industry!
Tell your all-time personal favorite stunt story!
My favorite on set story would have to be when Charlie Croughwell asked Sala Baker and I which one of us wanted to jump out of a window onto a van that takes off and then get kicked out of it going 25 mph.
Before I could even answer, Sala Baker looked at me and said to Charlie, “Young blood is going take this one” and starts chuckling at me. You never know what the coordinator is going to ask of you and was happy to be able to have the opportunity to prove myself in front of such legendary stunt people.
What is the best part about being a stunt performer?
I would say that the best part about being a stunt person is being part of such an awesome community of people. Everyone looks out for each other.
I’m still at the very beginning stages of my career. There are still so many fun, talented stunt people I have yet to meet and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
What advice would you give other stunt people?
My advice for people wanting to become a stunt person would be to never stop learning new skills and honing your old ones.
Also important to put yourself out there. Meeting new people and creating new relationships is crucial to building a career and forming friendships that will last a lifetime.
Stunt Players Directory: https://www.stuntplayers.com/player/jake-tandy/
StuntPhone: https://www.stuntphone.com/viewprofile/2232/
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