Tom O'Connell
Introducing Tom O'Connell, a stuntman and actor known for his stunt double roles, Heavy Mandalorian and Darth Vader. His story is one of the unexpected. Hailing from Louisville and a graduate of Trinity, Tom's expertise extends to on-screen fighting and stunts, making him a sought-after talent in the industry. Initially aiming to become an astronaut or NASA engineer with his computer engineering degree from the University of Alabama, his unconventional path led him from engineering to becoming a figure in film and television.
You might recognize Tom from his roles as the Heavy Mandalorian and Darth Vader's stunt double, where his knack for on-screen fighting and precision stunts shines through. His background in stagecraft gives him an edge, allowing him to seamlessly embody various characters. This 6'4 skilled sword and katana practitioner brings authenticity to his action sequences, captivating audiences with his precision and finesse. His expertise in horseback riding adds a rugged charm to his on-screen presence, allowing him to effortlessly embody a range of characters, from rugged cowboys to daring adventurers.
Beyond the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, Tom remains grounded in his roots, still maintaining ties to the STEM world. His engineering background landed him gigs rigging stunts for blockbuster films like "Avatar: The Way of Water" and "Avatar 3."
But Tom's talents don't stop there. With a background in ice hockey and skating, he possesses the agility and grace necessary for intricate choreography and high-octane stunts. Off-screen, Tom is a passionate advocate for stagecraft and the art of on-screen fighting. His speaking engagements planned for September 25-27 in Louisville and Bowling Green, KY, sponsored by Kentucky To The World, will offer invaluable insights into the world of stunts and stagecraft, inspiring aspiring performers, fans, and students who may not entirely be sure of their path in the professional world. Tom doubles as the Heavy Mandalorian and Darth Vader, and he believes that teaching students how to set up shop for film and construct stunts opens up a whole new world for aspiring students. He encourages interaction, often seeking volunteers to participate in demonstrations. Tom will share his career path, providing a glimpse into the behind-the-curtain work in Hollywood. He emphasizes that stage combat vastly differs from street fighting, highlighting the nuances and techniques required for on-screen realism.
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Tom still maintains ties to the STEM world. He draws upon his engineering background to inform his work in film. He explores the physical expression of film work and how it translates to the screen, emphasizing his interest in stagecraft and the artistic side of filmmaking.
For the first time ever, Kentucky to the World presented a dual-location unforgettable event in Louisville and Bowling Green, KY, in September 2024. This event was an exhilarating experience featuring live stunts, jaw-dropping demonstrations, audience engagement, and captivating conversations with Tom O'Connell, as part of the Republic Bank Foundation Speaker Series, with support from the Speed Art Museum and the WKU Innovation Campus. More about the program >>
