In the heart of Canada's film industry boom, an Edmonton-based stunt performer is making waves on some of Hollywood's biggest sets. John "Shogun" McPherson, a local martial arts expert turned professional stuntman, is bringing Alberta talent to international audiences through high-profile projects like Deadpool & Wolverine and HBO's The Last of Us.
The Martial Arts Foundation
McPherson's journey began not in film studios, but in Edmonton's martial arts dojos. With over two decades of experience in various combat disciplines, he developed the physical prowess and discipline that would later become his ticket to Hollywood. "The martial arts background gives you that foundation of movement, timing, and spatial awareness that's crucial for stunt work," McPherson explains.
Breaking Into the Industry
The transition from local martial artist to professional stunt performer wasn't overnight. McPherson started by working on smaller Canadian productions, gradually building his resume and connections within the industry. His big break came when major Hollywood productions began flocking to Alberta, drawn by the province's diverse landscapes and competitive production incentives.
The Last of Us Experience
Working on HBO's critically acclaimed series The Last of Us proved to be a career highlight. "The level of detail and commitment to authenticity on that set was incredible," McPherson recalls. "Every stunt, every fight sequence was meticulously planned and executed to serve the story."
Deadpool & Wolverine Challenges
His work on the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine film presented different challenges altogether. "The Marvel universe requires a unique blend of physical comedy, intense action, and character-specific movement," he notes. "You're not just performing stunts; you're helping bring these iconic characters to life."
The Alberta Advantage
McPherson's success highlights the growing strength of Alberta's film industry. With world-class facilities like the Calgary Film Centre and diverse locations ranging from urban landscapes to mountainous terrain, the province has become a go-to destination for major productions.
"We're proving that you don't need to move to Los Angeles or Vancouver to build a career in film," McPherson emphasizes. "The opportunities are right here in Alberta, and the talent pool keeps growing."
Advice for Aspiring Stunt Performers
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, McPherson offers practical advice:
- Diversify your skills: Master multiple disciplines from martial arts to gymnastics
- Network strategically: Build relationships within the local film community
- Stay physically prepared: The next opportunity could come at any time
- Embrace the grind: Success in stunts requires persistence and resilience
As Alberta's film industry continues to thrive, performers like McPherson are not just participating in major productions—they're helping shape them, bringing authentic Canadian talent to global audiences while proving that Hollywood-caliber careers can be built right here in Edmonton.
