Chad Stahelski, born September 20, 1968, is a renowned American stuntman and filmmaker, celebrated for directing the John Wick franchise. At age 57 in 2025, his net worth is estimated at $15 million, earned through his prolific career as a stuntman, stunt coordinator, and director. Stahelski is divorced from stuntwoman Heidi Moneymaker and is currently single, with no public dating history since 2018. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing approximately 185 lbs, he remains a towering figure in action cinema, known for his innovative choreography and directorial vision.
Early Life and Background: Age, Height, Weight, and Roots
Born in Palmer, Massachusetts, Chad Stahelski grew up with a passion for martial arts, training in Jeet Kune Do under Dan Inosanto. His height of 6’1” and weight of 185 lbs complemented his athletic prowess, making him a natural fit for stunt work. While details about his family, including parents Gary and Kathleen Stahelski, remain private, his early immersion in martial arts shaped his career. Stahelski’s disciplined upbringing and competitive spirit in kickboxing and mixed martial arts set the stage for his Hollywood journey.
Stahelski attended the University of Southern California, where he honed his skills, though he keeps his educational details discreet. His early career included teaching at the Inosanto Martial Arts Academy, where he crossed paths with Brandon Lee, a connection that would prove pivotal.
Career Beginnings: From Stuntman to Stunt Coordinator
Stahelski’s career began in 1992 with Mission of Justice, but his breakthrough came in 1994 when he doubled for Brandon Lee in The Crow after Lee’s tragic death. This role, requiring Stahelski to mimic Lee’s movements with precision, showcased his ability to blend physicality and artistry. His work on The Matrix (1999) as Keanu Reeves’ stunt double cemented his reputation, leading to roles as a stunt coordinator on films like V for Vendetta (2005) and The Expendables (2010).
A unique insight from industry peers reveals Stahelski’s meticulous approach. “Chad’s ability to choreograph action that feels raw yet cinematic is unmatched,” says stunt coordinator J.J. Perry, who worked with him on The Expendables 2. Despite a tragic accident on that set, Stahelski’s reputation for safety and precision endured.
Rise to Fame: Directing the John Wick Franchise
In 2014, Stahelski co-directed John Wick with David Leitch, a film that grossed $88 million on a modest budget, redefining action cinema with its “gun-fu” style. He solely directed John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017, $171 million), Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019), and Chapter 4 (2023), each expanding the franchise’s mythology. His innovative use of long takes and minimal cuts, inspired by classic action films, earned critical acclaim. Stahelski’s action design company, 87Eleven, co-founded with Leitch, became a hub for cutting-edge stunt work.
Recent projects include producing Day Shift (2022) and Ballerina, a John Wick spinoff set for 2026. In 2023, he was tasked with overseeing the John Wick and Highlander franchises for Lionsgate, signaling his growing influence. Stahelski’s collaboration with Shinichirō Watanabe on the anime Lazarus (2024) highlights his versatility, blending Eastern and Western action aesthetics.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in 2025
Chad Stahelski’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $15 million, with an annual salary of approximately $2 million, derived from directing, producing, and stunt coordination. His work on John Wick: Chapter 4, which grossed over $440 million, significantly boosted his earnings. Unlike many directors, Stahelski’s hands-on approach—often testing stunts himself—adds value to his projects, ensuring authenticity. Data from Box Office Mojo underscores the franchise’s global appeal, with the John Wick series surpassing $1 billion in total box office revenue by 2025.
Relationship Status: Married, Divorced, and Dating History
Stahelski was married to Heidi Moneymaker, a stuntwoman known for doubling Scarlett Johansson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Their marriage ended in divorce in 2018, and they have no children. Since then, Stahelski has kept his dating life private, with no confirmed relationships as of 2025. Rumors linked him to Moneymaker at the John Wick: Chapter 2 premiere in 2017, but no further details emerged. His focus remains on his career, with little public insight into his personal life.
Physical Stats: Height, Weight, and Presence
At 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing around 185 lbs, Stahelski maintains a fit physique suited for his action-oriented career. His brown eyes and graying hair reflect a seasoned professional who balances physical demands with creative leadership. His commanding presence on set, often described as calm yet authoritative, enhances his ability to direct high-octane sequences.
Recent Updates and Future Projects
In 2025, Stahelski continues to innovate, with projects like the Highlander reboot and adaptations of Rainbow Six and Ghost of Tsushima in development. His work on Lazarus showcases his ability to merge anime-inspired visuals with action expertise. Industry trends suggest a growing demand for Stahelski’s style, with audiences craving authentic, story-driven action. His influence extends beyond directing, as he mentors emerging stunt professionals through 87Eleven.
Chad Stahelski Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles F. Stahelski |
| Date of Birth | September 20, 1968 |
| Age (2025) | 57 years |
| Birthplace | Palmer, Massachusetts, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) |
| Weight | Approximately 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Education | University of Southern California |
| Profession | Stuntman, Film Director, Producer |
| Known For | John Wick Franchise, The Matrix |
| Net Worth (2025) | $15 million |
| Salary (Annual) | $2 million |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Heidi Moneymaker, 2018) |
| Children | None |
| Notable Films | John Wick (2014), The Crow (1994) |
| Current Projects | Highlander, Lazarus, Ballerina |
| Company | 87Eleven (Co-founder) |
| Social Media | Not active |
Unique Insights and Industry Impact
Stahelski’s approach to action filmmaking emphasizes realism and immersion, avoiding over-reliance on CGI. His homage to classics like Bruce Lee’s Enter the Dragon in John Wick: Chapter 2’s mirror room scene reflects a deep respect for action heritage. Unlike many directors, Stahelski’s stunt background allows him to design sequences that prioritize performer safety while pushing creative boundaries. His mentorship at 87Eleven has produced talents like Heidi Moneymaker and Daniel Bernhardt, fostering a new generation of stunt professionals.
Conclusion
Chad Stahelski’s journey from a stuntman to a visionary director showcases his dedication to action cinema. At 57, with a net worth of $15 million and a salary reflecting his success, he remains a pivotal figure in Hollywood. Divorced and private about his dating life, Stahelski’s focus is on crafting groundbreaking films. His height, weight, and martial arts expertise continue to shape his dynamic career. Follow his journey on Wikipedia or explore his work via IMDb.
