When I think of “Evel Knievel,” or, as many fondly mispronounce it, “Evil Knievel,” I can’t help but smile and reminisce about my dad’s wild tales of this larger-than-life character who boldly rode motorcycles and shattered limits—both physical and metaphorical. As a fellow Montanan, my dad relished in the fact that Evel wasn’t just a daredevil but also an audacious spirit who lived life on the edge and embraced the chaos. Can you believe it? This year would have marked his 86th birthday, celebrating the legacy of a man who continually risked it all, falling and getting back up, only to leap again!
Evel, born Robert Craig Knievel, transcended the average daredevil stereotype, rocketing into stardom with hair-raising stunts in the ’60s and ’70s that left us all in awe. Ever wondered how someone turns being a “troublemaker” into a household name? Well, you’re in for a ride! Get ready to discover why he became a symbol of adventure, the stories behind his iconic nickname, and how he turned his passions into extreme sports fame. Dive in to learn more about this daring legend’s incredible journey! LEARN MORE
When I see the name “Evel Knievel,” or as many know him, “Evil Knievel,” I recall stories from my Dad about a crazy man who loved to push his limits on motorcycles. He may have been particularly proud of Evel as a fellow Montanan and a man who wasn’t afraid to try new things.
This year marks what would have been his 86th birthday. He died in 2007 at the age of 69. Knievel was a household name in the 60s and 70s, known for his wild stunts and daredevil antics.
Born Robert Craig Knievel, Knievel changed his name to Evel as a young man. According to Knievel’s autobiography, the name change came about after spending time in jail and being called “Evil Knievel” by the jailer.
He decided to adjust the name to “Evel” to make it more unique, less negative, and memorable. The new name stuck, and the rest is history.
Knievel was an athletic teenager who was bored with the status quo in his little Montana town. Abandoned by his parent at a young age, he was known for being a troublemaker. He always had an interest in motorcycles a young man.
Rather than continue wasting his time in school, he dropped out as a sophomore and started working in the copper mine. Later, he tried his hand at a variety of jobs, such as selling insurance.
In the end, he followed his passion for riding motorcycles. Among other ventures, he gradually started attempting to push the envelope with his motorcycle tricks, gaining popularity along the way.
Over his career, Evel Knievel attempted more than 75 stunts, some successful and others not. Attempts at jumping new feats (whether while practicing or during the actual attempt), including the Ceaser Palace fountains in Las Vegas, often resulted in broken bones in the hospital.
He became most famous for his jumps over cars, buses, and even the Snake River Canyon in Idaho. He dreamed of jumping the Grand Canyon but realized the government would never allow it.
In addition to being a daredevil, Knievel was also a showman. He often dressed up in flashy costumes to add excitement to his performances. He was also great at promoting himself, often appearing on talk shows and in the media to gain popularity.
Knievel was known as a reckless risk-taker to many, and his personal life was all but perfect, often getting in trouble with the law for stealing and violence.
Despite suffering numerous injuries throughout his career, he became a symbol of extreme sports and the adventurous spirit. Knievel’s stunts were often televised (either live or as a recording), drawing large audiences and making him a household name thanks to his flamboyant personality, big stunts, and distinct outfits.
JayDee Vykoukal is a writer, author, mom, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She has been writing about everything motherhood and health-related since 2018 when her first daughter was born, and she wanted to stay home. She loves to research new topics and fun facts with her kids to teach them about the world.