What role did the 'Back to the Future' stunt coordinator play?

The 'Back to the Future' stunt coordinator, Charlie Croughwell, stepped in to prevent director Bob Zemeckis from having lead actor Michael J. Fox perform a risky skateboard stunt, ensuring the film's safety and success.

How did the 1st AD respond to Zemeckis' demand for Michael J. Fox to do the stunt?

The 1st AD, David McGiffert, firmly objected to Zemeckis' demand, warning that if Fox fell under the car, it would be "over in a heartbeat." McGiffert threatened to put a note on the slate protesting the stunt, which ultimately led Zemeckis to relent.

What was the outcome of the standoff between the director and 1st AD on the 'Back to the Future' set?

The standoff was resolved in favor of safety, with Croughwell handling the "crazy stunts" and Fox performing much of his own skateboard work in the film. This behind-the-scenes drama highlighted the vital role the stunt team played in ensuring the success of the beloved time travel comedy.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Stunt Coordinator's Defiance Saved 'Back to the Future' Star from Risky Stunt

Stunt Coordinator's Defiance Saved 'Back to the Future' Star from Risky Stunt

18 Oct

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Summary

Stunt coordinator Charlie Croughwell doubled for Michael J. Fox in 'Back to the Future'
Director Bob Zemeckis wanted Fox to perform a dangerous skateboard stunt, but the 1st AD objected
Stunt coordinator's intervention prevented the lead actor from attempting the risky stunt

Stunt Coordinator's Defiance Saved 'Back to the Future' Star from Risky Stunt

In 2025, it has been revealed that the success of the classic 1985 film 'Back to the Future' was partly due to the actions of the film's stunt coordinator, Charlie Croughwell. According to a new memoir by star Michael J. Fox, Croughwell stepped in to prevent director Bob Zemeckis from having Fox perform a risky skateboard stunt in front of a moving car.

The 1st AD, David McGiffert, recalled that he had to firmly object to Zemeckis' demand, warning that if Fox fell under the car, it would be "over in a heartbeat." After Zemeckis insisted, McGiffert threatened to put a note on the slate protesting the stunt, which ultimately led the director to relent.

Fox went on to perform much of his own skateboard work in the film, but Croughwell handled the "crazy stunts," including a sequence where he sailed through the air the entire length of Biff's convertible. This behind-the-scenes drama highlights the vital role that the stunt team played in ensuring the safety and success of the beloved time travel comedy.

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