The stunt driver who died on the set of Deadpool 2 has been named as professional motorbike racer Joi ‘SJ’ Harris.
According to TMZ, Harris died on set in Vancouver yesterday after her bike crashed through the glass of a nearby ground-floor studio.
Joi Harris became the first Black Woman licensed to compete in AMA races. #BlackGirlMagic May she rest in power? pic.twitter.com/Mms0v9jmPa
— ?Veronica? (@nerdyxicana) August 15, 2017
The film was Harris’ first as a stunt performer, and saw her taking on the role of Domino, who is played in the superhero sequel by Zazie Beetz.
Production has been subsequently shut down following the tragic incident, and it is not known when it will restart.
Harris was also the first African-American female professional road racer, having previously gained her American Motorcyclist Association professional license in 2013 after securing more than 1500 training hours.
A stunt driver has died on the set of Deadpool during a stunt on a motorcycle. VPD & @WorkSafeBC investigators are at the scene.
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) August 14, 2017
Paying tribute on Twitter, Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds said that his ‘heart pours out’ to Harris’ friends and loved ones.
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) August 14, 2017
His sentiment was backed by director David Leitch, who said he was “deeply saddened” by Harris’ death.
“I’m deeply saddened by the loss of one of our stunt performers today. No words can express how I and the rest of the Deadpool 2 crew feel about this tragedy. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones in this difficult time”, he said in a statement.
The latest part of the franchise is currently being filmed in London and is expected to arrive in cinemas on July 27, 2018. M:I6 will also star Henry Cavill, Rebecca Ferguson, Angela Bassett and Alec Baldwin.
Cruise was performing a stunt on set where he was jumping from building to building. A video obtained by TMZ shows him missing his landing point and hitting the building.
He was able to get back on his feet, but appeared to be limping heavily. After taking a few steps, he bent double for a few seconds, before limping back to the edge of the building. It is currently unclear how serious the injury is.