Personal details
Born:
- Birthday: 1975-11-16
- Born Place: Kohler, Wisconsin, USA
Also Known As:
David M. Leitch
David Leitch
David Leitch is an American filmmaker, stunt performer, and actor who has significantly shaped modern action cinema. Born on November 16, 1975, in Kohler, Wisconsin, his early fascination with martial arts led him to self-train and later attend the Dan Inosanto Academy while studying International Relations at the University of Minnesota. After graduating, he initially opened a martial arts school. Leitch transitioned into the film industry as a stunt performer, gaining recognition as a stunt double for major actors like Brad Pitt (five times, including Fight Club and Mr. & Mrs. Smith) and Jean-Claude Van Damme (twice). His extensive stunt credits include The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions, 300, and The Bourne Ultimatum, for which he received Screen Actors Guild Awards.In 1997, Leitch co-founded 87Eleven Action Design with fellow stuntman Chad Stahelski. This company became a leading force in action design, revolutionizing fight choreography by emphasizing practical stunts and seamless integration with storytelling. Leitch and Stahelski famously co-directed the acclaimed 2014 action film John Wick, though only Stahelski received the credited director title. Following John Wick's success, Leitch embarked on a solo directing career, helming several successful action blockbusters, including Atomic Blonde (2017), Deadpool 2 (2018), Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019), Bullet Train (2022), and The Fall Guy (2024). He often also serves as a producer through his company, 87North Productions, which he runs with his wife, Kelly McCormick. Leitch continues to be an executive producer on the John Wick franchise and is known for his distinctive style that prioritizes practical action and strong visual storytelling.
