For the first time, Kentucky to the World (KTW) is bringing its celebrated live programming to Bowling Green with an extraordinary event featuring Hollywood stuntman and Kentucky native, Tom O’Connell. The event, part of the Republic Bank Foundation Speaker Series, will take place on Friday, September 27, at 5:30 p.m. at the WKU Innovation Campus HQ.
This marks a significant milestone for KTW, a nonprofit dedicated to showcasing Kentucky talent on a global stage, as it expands its reach beyond Louisville. The event offers the Bowling Green community a rare opportunity to witness live stunts, thrilling demonstrations, and engaging conversations with O’Connell, known for his work as a stunt double for iconic characters such as Darth Vader and the Heavy Mandalorian.
O’Connell, a Louisville native, is returning to his home state to share his unique journey from Kentucky to Hollywood. Despite earning a degree in computer engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with the dream of becoming an astronaut or NASA engineer, his passion for performance led him to an unexpected career as a stuntman in the film and television industry.
“We are thrilled to be headquartered at the WKU Innovation Campus and bringing this program to Bowling Green is a momentous occasion for Kentucky to the World,” said Shelly Zegart, KTW’s president and CEO. “It’s our mission to highlight the extraordinary talent that has emerged from Kentucky, and Tom O’Connell’s story is a testament to the creativity and passion that thrives in our state. We are excited to bring his incredible journey to a new audience and inspire the next generation of Kentuckians.”
The event will feature interactive sessions with O’Connell, allowing attendees to gain insight into the world of stunts, stagecraft, and on-screen combat. Community members, particularly those of middle school age and up, are invited to attend. The event promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience for all who enjoy action-packed films or are curious about the art of stunt work.
Tickets for the event are $25 per adult and are available for purchase at kentuckytotheworld.org. Thanks to the support of KTW donors and sponsors, the program is free for local middle school through university-age students. Educators interested in having their students attend are encouraged to email tickets@kentuckytotheworld.org.
Ahead of the main event, KTW and the Carol Martin Gatton Academy will host an exclusive student briefing with O’Connell on Thursday, September 26. This interactive session will provide Academy students with a unique opportunity to engage with the stuntman in a more intimate setting.
Founded in 2012, KTW has worked to elevate the cultural and intellectual reputation of Kentucky by sharing compelling stories of extraordinary people with Kentucky roots. Through live events, television specials, digital content, and school programs, KTW has been a powerful force in changing the narrative surrounding Kentucky’s contributions to the world stage. With its expansion into Bowling Green, KTW continues to highlight the stories of Kentuckians like Tom O’Connell, whose work has left a mark far beyond the state’s borders.
For more information on the event and KTW’s work, visit kentuckytotheworld.org.
