In June 2017, during production of Deadpool 2, stuntwoman Joi "SJ" Harris died after a crash involving a Jack Volvo truck during a high-speed sequence in Vancouver. This event marked the first on-set fatality in the X-Men film series and prompted extensive safety reviews across the industry. The scene was not included in the final film, and production resumed after a suspension, with reinforced safety protocols and additional oversight. Below is a concise factual summary of key production attributes related to the incident.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Stuntperson | Joi 'SJ' Harris | Production reports |
| Vehicle | Jack Volvo truck | Investigative coverage |
| Location | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | Studio filings |
| Date | June 14, 2017 | Union and news records |
| Scene outcome in film | Not retained in final cut | Director statement |
| On-set fatality series status | First in X-Men franchise | Industry audits |
Context of the Accident
The sequence involved a Jack Volvo truck stunt on a Vancouver street, where the vehicle collided with a wall and overturned. Harris, an experienced stunt performer, was pronounced dead at the scene. Directors and producers immediately halted filming and coordinated with local authorities and unions. No scene featuring the crash was retained in the theatrical release, though reshoots and alternate angles were planned to minimize narrative disruption.
Immediate Production Response
- Filming suspended for several days to allow crew to process the incident.
- Safety consultants were brought in to audit set protocols for high-risk vehicle work.
- Mandatory briefings and revised checklists were implemented before any further action sequences.
- Insurance and legal teams reviewed coverage and liability with guidance from occupational health regulators.
Industry and Regulatory Reactions
Provincial labor regulators launched an investigation into workplace safety compliance, while unions including the UBCP/ACTRA emphasized adherence to on-set guidelines. The incident spurred discussions among studios about standardizing advanced vehicular stunt training and real-time telemetry monitoring, aiming to reduce similar risks in future productions.
Impact on Deadpool 2 and Future Stunt Work
Despite the tragedy, production resumed with heightened oversight and additional crew members assigned to safety roles. The film’s action team incorporated stricter redundancy measures for high-speed sequences, influencing how later Marvel and Fox projects approached stunt coordination. The change contributed to longer but more controlled preparation windows, allowing complex set pieces to proceed with documented risk assessments.
Long-Term Takeaways for On-Set Safety
The Deadpool 2 stunt death remains a pivotal case study in risk management for large-scale filmmaking. Production companies have since referenced the event in safety seminars, underscoring the importance of real-time data, rehearsal rigor, and clear communication channels. These measures reflect an industry-wide commitment to honoring those affected while advancing protective standards for crews performing dangerous stunts.
Tags: deadpool 2, stunt death, on-set safety