‘Deadpool 2’ Stuntwoman SJ Harris Suffers Tragic Death On Set, Cast and Crew Mourns
BY David Riley
Published 7 years ago
The cast and crew of “Deadpool 2” are in mourning after they lost Joi “SJ” Harris, a stuntwoman who tragically died while performing a motorcycle stunt gone wrong on set Monday morning. In a report by TMZ, Harris seemed to have lost control of the motorcycle she was riding while filming “Deadpool 2” in Vancouver. CTV News reports that Harris was apparently thrown from the motorcycle after she jumped a curb and came crashing through the glass window of Shaw Tower’s ground level, which was right across the street from the set.
Stunt accident on set of Deadpool 2. Witnesses say motorcycle crashed through window of Shaw Tower near Jack Poole Plaza. @CTVVancouver pic.twitter.com/TJoLYRHcHT
— Ben Miljure (@CTVNewsBen) August 14, 2017
‘Deadpool 2′ Cast Mourns SJ Harris’ Passing
A spokesperson for 20th Century Fox released a statement to MTV News, saying “We are deeply saddened by the accident that occurred on the set of Deadpool 2 this morning. Our hearts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of our crew member during this difficult time.”
Ryan Reynolds, the lead actor and producer for “Deadpool 2” posted a message on Twitter addressing the tragic passing of Harris. “We are heartbroken, shocked, and devastated,” Reynolds said. “but recognize that nothing can come close to the grief and inexplicable pain her family and loved ones must feel in this moment.”
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) August 14, 2017
“Deadpool 2” director David Leitch also issued a statement to MTV News and said, “I’m deeply saddened by the loss of one of our stunt performers today. No words can express how I and the rest of the Deadpool 2 crew feel about this tragedy. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones in this difficult time.”
Vancouver Police confirmed Harris’ accident on Twitter and also said that WorkSafeBC is currently investigating the scene. “Two officers are inspecting the site for immediate occupational health and safety issues,” a spokesperson for Vancouver Police said. “Three officers are investigating the incident for cause and prevention under the Workers’ Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.”
According to Harris’ website, she was the first ever licensed female African-American road racer in the US. “Deadpool 2” was her first film project as a stuntwoman.