The Walking Dead: AMC, Scott M. Gimple address John Bernecker’s death

The news of stuntman John Bernecker’s death is still something that is reverberating through The Walking Dead community. This is a show that films in Atlanta and the surrounding areas, and by some measure, it’s isolated from some of the escapism of Hollywood. There is a familial atmosphere to the set, close friendships are formed, there’s a shared experience that comes out of being out in the conditions and the heat trying to make the best show possible.

When an accident like this happens leading to a tragic death, it hurts all the more because of how close so many people are. We’ve already heard from many members of the cast, and tonight, we’ve heard from some of the higher-ups with the show and its network. In a statement, AMC shared their condolences with Bernecker’s family and loved ones:

“John Bernecker’s family has decided that he will be removed from life support, following organ donation. We are deeply saddened by this loss and our hearts and prayers are with John’s family, friends and colleagues during this extremely difficult time.”

Meanwhile, executive producer and showrunner Scott M. Gimple said the following:

“Our production is heartbroken by the tragic loss of John Bernecker. John’s work on The Walking Dead and dozens of other movies and shows will continue to entertain and excite audiences for generations. We are grateful for his contributions, and all of us send our condolences, love, and prayers to John’s family and friends.”

We have reported already that there will be investigations into what happened leading up to the accident earlier this week; SAG-AFTRA is conducting one of these said investigations, and they issued a statement of their own today:

“SAG-AFTRA offers its deepest condolences to the family of John Bernecker, an accomplished stunt performer who passed away today after a fall on the set of The Walking Dead in Georgia,” the union said. “This tragic and untimely loss of a member of the SAG-AFTRA family is heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with his loved ones and his friends and colleagues in the Georgia production community. The safety of our members is paramount. We will work with the authorities and closely monitor their investigations into this tragic incident.”

As for where this passing leaves the cast and crew moving forward, it’s in mourning. Nothing else really matters, whether it be the show’s previously-scheduled Comic-Con panel or any promotional efforts. Make sure the right care is taken to honor Bernecker’s memory, and then figure out the next move from there. We would hope that some immediate decisions would be made after some discussions with the family. The cast and crew cared about him in their own right, and they also need some time on their own to heal. It’s not any of our places to say what they should or shouldn’t do at this time.

As of now, let us further extend once more our thoughts and condolences to the entire Bernecker family as they cope with this loss. (Photo: AMC.)