Preston Corbell is an American stuntman and actor, known for working on the WB/CW drama series One Tree Hill (2003-2012) and the CW series The Vampire Diaries (2009-2017). He has also worked as a performer with Marvel Universe and DC Comics.
Stuntman is an unusual career—what made you veer down that path?
I started out as an actor when I was a kid and had the chance to play a masked horror character which led to doing some stunts. I was also a basketball player growing up and I used my athletic ability for double work.
What specific skills do you need as a stuntman?
You should be great at one thing such as driving, fighting, or a certain sport for example, that will get your foot in the door. But it is all about being smart with your craft and learning from each experience.
Has there ever been a stunt you’ve questioned doing?
I have been fortunate enough to work on major productions and I know the best safety and people are behind the stunts, so no I have not questioned a stunt.
Most difficult stunt to do in film and television?
I always go back to getting hit by a car. I have performed this stunt many times, but it is a little different each time. It takes tremendous focus and skill to pull it off, just a fraction of a second difference could result in a severe injury.
Who have you been a stuntman for in the past?
I’ve notably doubled Kenny Powers on Eastbound and Down and Lucas Scott on One Tree Hill.
Favorite post-stunt beverage?
Post stunt meaning relaxing after an exhausting day would be Dr. Pepper. But right after stunt water of course.
If you could be remembered for one thing, what would it be?
Leaving everything on the screen, meaning I put my life on the line at times and risk severe injury. I want 100% of my passion left as a stamp on the project I am working on.
How do you cope with stress?
I am a calm person, and I do not overreact when something happens. This is likely to do with the fact that when performing stunts things happen fast and could go wrong quickly, so having that calm energy helps cope with stress.
Give us some details about a typical day in the life of *YOU*
At this point in my career, I am 20 years in, and I wake up figuring out what hurts the most and focusing on treating that area of my body. This can be stretches, a heating pad and ice for example. I start every morning with a smoothie, usually fruit and spinach.
What trait do you think most benefits you in your line of work?
Lack of fear is definitely a learned trait that is especially useful. I can envision the task and channel my energy into a passion for the project which allows me to overcome fear.
If you could start all over again, what would you do differently?
Of course, I wonder what if just like everyone else, but the answer is no. My journey has taken me to incredible heights and if it were different, I would not have achieved the success I have. The best thing that comes from failure or missed opportunities is we learn, and I use that lesson to better myself and be more prepared next time I have an opportunity.
If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?
I did some dumb things, smartly
If someone was going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?
Jim Carrey because he is funny but also has a deep intellectual side.
What would be the ideal food to have cooked for you on a date night?
Chicken fried steak or meatloaf, I am a southern boy.
What was the last TV series you watched on TV?
Shark tank, got to love creative minds.
What makes you nostalgic?
Music, I mostly listen to 90’s rock like Collective Soul and the Goo Goo Dolls it brings comfort and familiarity.
Social media: https://www.instagram.com/stunt.beast/
