As lead stunt double for Gal Gadot in the film Wonder Woman, Caitlin Dechelle was responsible for the kickass stunts and fighting scenes that brought the film to life. A martial artist from the age of six, she has an incredible 95 world titles to her name. Eager to find out more, I put twenty questions to Caitlin about martial arts, her stunt background and her experience on the Wonder Woman set.
#1. You have an amazing 95 world titles in martial arts to your name. Did you have to make a lot of sacrifices to achieve this?
Yes, ever since I was 6 years old, I worked tirelessly to perfect my martial arts skills. Endless hours of training combined with travelling for tournaments kept me beyond busy. Schoolwork was a challenge as well, as I missed a lot of days at school. At the end of the day though, I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.
#2. At what point did you decide to pursue a career into stunt work?
I had some friends in the business which always piqued my interest but I never thought it was for me. I auditioned for a stunt double role in a film my senior year of high school and that really sparked my interest. I figured if there was any time to get into the business, it was then. I am so glad I made that choice!
#3. Your audition for Wonder Woman sounded pretty intense! What kind of things did it involve?
The audition for Wonder Woman was very intense, but it was also a lot of fun! It was actually on my birthday and I was psyched when I walked in and realized what it was for. It included all types of skills such as fighting, weapons and tricks.
#4. Did your role in Wonder Woman require you to build or maintain a certain physique?
You bet it did! She’s Wonder Woman! I had to be in tiptop shape. Workouts were 6-8 hours a day.
Typical days were busy, busy, busy. Rehearsal days started with morning cardio followed by a quick breakfast; then right into rehearsal till lunch; then another workout including weights and finishing up with any other rehearsal we had left to accomplish that day. Filming days ranged from 12 to 15+ hours.
BY BADASSERY
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