Lexington, Kentucky, October 10, 2025
News Summary
A.J. Bakunas, a stuntman, tragically died during the filming of ‘Steel’ in Lexington, Kentucky. The incident, resulting from a failed safety pad during a high fall, sparked serious concerns about stunt safety protocols in the film industry. Following his death, both the film and the industry have faced renewed scrutiny regarding safety measures for stunt performers.
Lexington Film Set Incident Results in Tragic Death of Stuntman
Lexington, Kentucky, witnessed a tragic incident on September 22, 1978, during the filming of the movie “Steel”, leading to the death of stuntman A.J. Bakunas. The accident raised serious concerns regarding stunt safety on film sets, particularly involving high falls, an issue still relevant today in the film industry.
A.J. Bakunas, originally from Fort Lee, New Jersey, was on set to double for actor George Kennedy during a critical stunt sequence. The stunt involved Bakunas attempting a fall from a height of 315 feet at the Kincaid Towers, under construction at the time. He aimed to regain his world record for the highest stunt fall, having previously set a record by falling 230 feet from a helicopter for the film “Hooper”.
Prior to the stunt, local safety concerns were expressed by both Dr. Jud Chalkley and Life Pack executive John Scurlock. They noted that the air safety pads in use were only certified for falls higher than 100 feet. In an effort to enhance safety, Bakunas doubled the landing pads, hoping to create a safer landing environment.
Tragically, when Bakunas jumped, he fell at speeds estimated over 115 miles per hour. Upon impact, the air safety pad failed to properly cushion his fall, leading to severe injuries, primarily to his lungs, hips, and shoulder blades. Bakunas was rushed to the hospital where he tragically succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The film “Steel”, which starred Kentucky native and Hollywood icon Lee Majors, was eventually released in 1979 and dedicated to Bakunas’ memory. The film’s premiere included the establishment of a scholarship fund in his honor.
Background on Lee Majors and Lexington’s Film Scene
Lee Majors, born Harvey Lee Yeary in Wyandotte, Michigan, was adopted by relatives in Middlesboro, Kentucky, after losing both parents in separate accidents. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 1962 before embarking on a successful acting career, becoming well-known for his portrayal of the titular character in the television series “The Six Million Dollar Man.” His role in “Steel” saw him perform as a foreman embroiled in deeper conflicts against a greedy tycoon.
The filming of “Steel” at the Kincaid Towers not only highlights the evolving film industry in Lexington but also underscored challenges filmmakers faced regarding on-set safety protocols that continue to shape stunt work today. The Kentucky Theatre survived its own tragedies and closures but remains a cherished landmark for both cinema enthusiasts and the local community.
Legacy of A.J. Bakunas
The memory of A.J. Bakunas lives on in the film industry, and safety measures have since been revised to ensure better protection for stunt performers. The legacy of “Steel” also continues as the Lexington community prepares for its 250th anniversary celebration in 2025, showcasing significant cultural contributions, including cinema and local history.
Upcoming Film Events in Lexington
As Lexington commemorates its rich film history, various projects highlighting local narratives are set to premiere in the coming years. Notable films include “Everything In Its Place,” showcasing the East End of Lexington, and “Lexington: Resilience in the Redline,” which addresses historical racism in housing practices, both set to debut at the Kentucky Theatre and Lyric Theatre, respectively, in 2025. These films mark an ongoing commitment to sharing community stories and representation within the arts.
FAQ Section
What happened to A.J. Bakunas on the film set of “Steel”?
A.J. Bakunas sustained fatal injuries after jumping from the Kincaid Towers during a stunt, where the air safety pad failed to cushion his fall effectively.
What are some significant contributions of Lee Majors?
Lee Majors is best known for his leading role in “The Six Million Dollar Man” and for acting in and producing films like “Steel,” which shows his roots in Lexington.
What safety concerns have arisen from this incident?
The incident raised significant concerns about stunt safety protocols led to changes regarding the use and certification of air safety pads, ensuring better protection for stunt performers.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | September 22, 1978 |
| Location | Kincaid Towers, Lexington, Kentucky |
| Stuntman’s Name | A.J. Bakunas |
| Film Title | Steel |
| Cause of Death | Injuries sustained from stunt fall |
| Outcome | Changes in stunt safety protocols |
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Additional Resources
- Lex18: The Kentucky Theatre’s Timeless Charm
- Kentucky.com: Film Industry Updates
- Fox56 News: Annabelle Doll Coming to Lexington Scarefest
- Kentucky.com: Opinion on Film Safety
- VisitLex: Seeking Film Productions in Lexington
- Wikipedia: Stunt Performer
- Google Search: Film Set Safety
- Google Scholar: Stunt Safety Protocols
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Stunt Double
- Google News: Film Industry Safety
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