Prolific American stuntman and occasional small part actor, formerly known as Wayne Van Horn, left an indelible mark on the film industry. Born into a family with a strong connection to the entertainment world, his father was a veterinarian who tended to animals at Universal studios, providing Van Horn with a unique exposure to the world of cinema from a young age.
As a young man, Van Horn served in the U.S. Army before pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. He began working as a horse wrangler, a skill he developed while growing up, which would later serve him well in his stunt work. His brother Jimmy, also involved in the industry, encouraged him to join him in Hollywood, where Van Horn's riding expertise quickly made him a sought-after talent.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Van Horn showcased his impressive riding skills in numerous westerns, often doubling for leading actors. One of his most notable roles was as the stunt double for Guy Williams in Disney's popular TV series Zorro, which aired from 1957 to 1959. His proficiency in fencing and fight scenes also made him a valuable asset in epic swashbucklers like Spartacus (1960) and The War Lord (1965).
Van Horn's versatility as a stunt performer allowed him to work with a wide range of major stars, including Gregory Peck in Mackenna's Gold (1969),James Stewart in Firecreek (1968),and Henry Fonda in The Cheyenne Social Club (1970). He was also a long-standing collaborator of Clint Eastwood, serving as his stunt double, stunt coordinator, director, and second-unit director on numerous films, including The Enforcer (1976),The Gauntlet (1977),Sudden Impact (1983),Any Which Way You Can (1980),The Dead Pool (1988),and Pink Cadillac (1989).
Throughout his illustrious career, Van Horn received numerous accolades, including induction into the Stuntmen's Hall of Fame and the Taurus Lifetime Achievement Stunt Award. His dedication to the craft of stunt work and his tireless efforts to advance the profession have left a lasting impact on the film industry.
