Ronnie Rondell Jr.

Early Life: A Hollywood Beginning

Ronnie Rondell Jr. was a living testament to the art of cinematic daring. For over five decades, he embodied the spirit of Hollywood's golden age of action, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. From childhood visits to movie sets to co-founding the legendary Stunts Unlimited, Rondell's life was a thrilling ride of courage, creativity, and resilience.

Born on February 10, 1937, in Hollywood, California, Ronnie was steeped in the world of filmmaking from the start. His father, Ronald Salvatore Rondell, was an actor and assistant director, while his mother, Ruth Durham Rondell, worked as a motion picture secretary. As a boy, Ronnie often accompanied his father to movie sets, where he was eventually cast in Ma and Pa Kettle at the Fair in 1952. These early experiences ignited his passion for film and stunts.

During his teenage years at North Hollywood High School, Ronnie excelled in gymnastics and diving. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, specialising in scuba diving and demolition. This training honed his physical prowess and fearlessness, qualities that would define his stunt career.

Career: From Stuntman to Stunt Legend

After his military service, Ronnie transitioned into the world of film, initially working as an extra before moving into stunt work. He became a trusted double for TV stars like David Janssen, Robert Horton, and Doug McClure, specialising in aerial stunts and fiery vehicle crashes. His notable works include Kings of the Sun (1963), where he performed a 100-foot fall, and Ice Station Zebra, where he drove an exploding car.

In 1970, Ronnie co-founded Stunts Unlimited with Hal Needham and Glenn Wilder, a collective that became a proving ground for Hollywood's elite stunt performers. This organisation not only elevated the profession but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among stunt professionals.

One of Ronnie's most iconic moments came in 1975 when he was photographed for the cover of Pink Floyd's album Wish You Were Here. In the image, he is seen shaking hands with fellow stuntman Danny Rogers while set on fire—a stunt that required him to wear a fireproof suit and endure controlled flames. Despite initial hesitations, Ronnie performed the stunt multiple times, and on the fifteenth take, a gust of wind caused the flames to reach his face, resulting in minor injuries. He later quipped, "There's a funny thing about fire... when it gets in your face, you're going to move."

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Ronnie's expertise was sought after for major action films like Blazing Saddles, Lethal Weapon, Thelma & Louise, and Speed. He also directed his first and only action film, No Safe Haven, and served as a second unit director on films such as The Two Jakes, The Mighty Ducks, and Captain Ron.

In 2003, Ronnie came out of retirement to perform a complex car chase scene in The Matrix Reloaded, teaming up with his son, Ronald A. Rondell, the film's stunt coordinator. This collaboration marked a poignant moment in his career, blending personal and professional milestones.

Personal Life: A Family of Stunt Professionals

Ronnie's personal life was deeply intertwined with his professional one. He was married to Mary Rondell for over five decades, and together they had two sons. Tragically, their son Reid, also a stuntman, died in a helicopter crash in 1985 while working on the TV series Airwolf. Despite this devastating loss, Ronnie continued to honour his family's legacy in the stunt industry.

His son, Ronald A. Rondell, followed in his footsteps, becoming a stunt coordinator and working on films like The Matrix Reloaded. This continuation of the family tradition underscored the enduring impact of Ronnie's mentorship and influence.

Legacy: A Flame That Never Dims

Ronnie Rondell Jr. passed away on August 12, 2025, at the age of 88. His legacy lives on through his contributions to the film industry, his role in elevating the profession of stunt work, and the family he inspired. He was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Taurus World Stunt Awards in 2004 and was inducted into the Hollywood Stuntmen's Hall of Fame.

Remembered as a pioneer, a mentor, and a man of unwavering courage, Ronnie's life story is a testament to the art of storytelling through action. His work continues to inspire stunt professionals and filmmakers, ensuring that his flame burns brightly in the annals of cinematic history.