David R. Ellis, the stuntman turned director has passed away of unknown causes at the age of 60.

Ellis began his career with a small role in the 1975 Kurt Russell film The Strongest Man In The World before moving into the world of the stuntman co-ordinating and performing stunts on a huge array of films including Scarface, To Live & Die In L.A., Star Trek V: The Final Frontier and the original V TV series.

Although not the most famous director in the world, Ellis helmed two films in the Final Destination franchise and Shark Night 3D, but will probably be best remembered for the internet sensation turned minor cult hit Snakes On A Plane starring Samuel L. Jackson.

As well as his work as a director, he also acted as a second unit director on Harry Potter & The Philosopher’s Stone, The Matrix Reloaded and this year’s comic book adaptation R.I.P.D.

He was currently in South Africa preparing his team up movie with Snakes star Jackson, a live action version of the anime Kite.