Ninja Warrior to remember one of its own

Australian Ninja Warrior will pay tribute to one Queensland stuntman, Johann Ofner, who died tragically in January in an unrelated set incident.

Ofner, 28, died on the set of a Bliss n Esso music video shoot after he suffered two gunshot wounds to the chest, inflicted at close range. Paramedics were unable to revive the father of one.

Known by friends as ‘Yogi,’ Ofner  had appeared in San Andreas, Blade, Gun Bust and Under The Deep. He finished filming for Australian Ninja Warrior late last year.

A Nine spokesperson said, “Production company Endemol Shine Australia and Channel Nine have decided to feature an on-screen in memoriam dedication to Johann Ofner rather than show his runs in the program.

“We have been in close contact with his next of kin, who are supportive of this decision. We have the utmost respect for Johann and his involvement in Ninja Warrior, and we want to honour his memory in the most appropriate way.”

Bliss n Esso have since performed a benefit concert for Ofner’s young daughter, while Queensland police have been conducting a coronial inquiry into the accident.

The Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance, previously said, “This tragedy is a stark reminder that the screen industry is inherently dangerous and of the need for total vigilance about workplace safety at all times on set.”

GoFundMe: Johan Ofner: a stunt brother lost