Sequana Joi “SJ” Harris, a pioneering motorcycle racer and stuntwoman, tragically lost her life on August 14, 2017, during the filming of Deadpool 2 in Vancouver, British Columbia. At 40 years old, Harris was performing her first stunt in a film, serving as the double for the character Domino, portrayed by Zazie Beetz. While executing a motorcycle stunt, she lost control of the bike, crashed into the Shaw Tower, and succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
A Trailblazer in Motorcycle Racing
Born on December 11, 1976, in Brooklyn, New York, Harris developed a passion for motorcycling later in life. She began riding in 2009 and quickly progressed in the sport. By 2013, she had earned her racing license, and in 2014, she made history as the first African American woman to compete professionally in motorcycle road racing in the United States. That same year, she founded her own racing team, Threader Racing, and competed under the number 24.
Harris was not only a competitor but also an advocate for diversity in motorsports. She actively promoted road racing among women and the African American community, striving to break down barriers in a predominantly male and white sport. Her dedication and trailblazing spirit earned her recognition and respect within the racing community.
The Tragic Accident on Deadpool 2 Set
In 2017, Harris was hired as a stunt performer for Deadpool 2, marking her debut in the film industry. She joined the production just a week before the fatal incident. On the day of the accident, Harris was performing a stunt that required her to ride a motorcycle at high speed through downtown Vancouver streets. During the fifth take, she lost control of the bike, which veered off course and crashed into the Shaw Tower. Harris was not wearing a helmet at the time, as the character she was portraying did not wear one in the scene, and there had not been sufficient time to create a helmet that could fit under the character’s wig.
The incident prompted an immediate halt in production, and the film’s cast and crew expressed their grief and condolences. Ryan Reynolds, who stars as Deadpool, stated, “We’re heartbroken, shocked, and devastated… but recognize nothing can come close to the grief and inexplicable pain her family and loved ones must feel in this moment.”
Investigations and Industry Response
Following the accident, WorkSafeBC conducted an investigation and concluded that the production company had failed to conduct a proper risk assessment addressing safety controls, the speed of the motorcycle, and equipment limitations. The report highlighted that Harris had limited experience with stunt work and was operating a more powerful motorcycle than she was accustomed to. Additionally, the decision to forgo a helmet for aesthetic reasons was criticized.
The stunt community responded with calls for improved safety measures and better training for stunt performers. Many professionals emphasized the need for productions to prioritize safety over visual authenticity and to ensure that stunt performers are adequately experienced and equipped for the tasks they are assigned.
Legacy and Remembrance
Despite the tragic circumstances of her death, Joi “SJ” Harris’s legacy endures. She is remembered as a trailblazer who broke barriers in motorcycle racing and inspired many with her determination and passion. Her story has sparked important conversations about diversity, representation, and safety in both the motorsports and film industries. Deadpool 2 was dedicated to her memory, honoring her contribution to the film and her pioneering spirit.
Harris’s life and career continue to serve as a testament to the impact one individual can have in challenging norms and paving the way for others. Her courage and accomplishments remain an inspiration to aspiring racers and stunt performers alike.
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