Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov, better known as Jaydok
For Zhaidarbek “Jaydok” Kunguzhinov, a career in action began long before the film set. After more than two decades working in the Kazakh State Circus, his background in trick riding and horse acrobatics gave him an exceptional foundation in timing, balance, control and understanding a horse’s movement—skills he would later carry into the precision-driven world of film stunts.
In 2000, Zhaidarbek founded Nomad Stunts International Action Company, building a team whose expertise in horseback action, horse acrobatics, combat and large-scale action sequences has taken them from Kazakhstan to productions around the world. Nomad Stunts has contributed to international films and television including Mulan, 47 Ronin, The Expendables 2, Conan the Barbarian, Marco Polo, Warrior and Mongol.
Zhaidarbek joined the Hitz International Action Team in 2015 and today works across the industry as an Action Director, Stunt Coordinator, Stunt Performer, Horse Master and Actor. His skill set reaches well beyond horsemanship, encompassing martial arts, fencing, archery, sword fighting and acrobatics.
His work has earned recognition both at home and internationally. Among his honors are Kazakhstan’s Order of Kurmet, recognition as an Honored Artist of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and a Taurus World Stunt Award for Best Action in a Foreign Film. He was also part of the stunt ensemble recognized with a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for Disney’s Mulan.
But behind the awards and spectacular action is a career built on something more fundamental: trust, preparation and respect for the craft. His approach to horse stunts in particular reflects the importance of developing a relationship with the animal and preparing it carefully for the demands of a film environment.
In our latest Hitz Interview Series, Jaydok shares the journey from his years in the circus to becoming an internationally recognized stunt professional, and how a lifetime spent mastering horses, movement and action continues to shape the way he approaches his work today.
We’re proud to have Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov as part of the Hitz International family and excited to share his story.
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