Originally published July 18, 2017. Updated April 16, 2018.
The production for season eight of The Walking Dead has now resumed after a stuntman’s death.
Following the tragic passing of John Bernecker last week, AMC had shut down production but things have now started back up again.
Bernecker was filming a scene which called for the stuntman to fall 20 feet off a balcony and onto a safety cushion. Matthew Goodwin, the show’s assistant director, told police that Bernecker tried to abort the jump by grabbing the balcony. This tragically caused him to hit the bottom of the balcony and miss the safety cushion, landing on his head and neck.
Bernecker’s family chose to turn off the ventilator the Thursday after the stuntman was airlifted to hospital.
Many of the show’s stars released statements and paid tribute to John, as did AMC and Scott Gimple – The Walking Dead’s showrunner.
“John Bernecker’s family has decided that he will be removed from life support, following organ donation,” AMC said late Friday. “We are deeply saddened by this loss and our hearts and prayers are with John’s family, friends and colleagues during this extremely difficult time.”
“Our production is heartbroken by the tragic loss of John Bernecker,” Gimple said. “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.”
