Evel Knievel Net Worth: The Life and Legacy of America’s Iconic Daredevil

Introduction

Evel Knievel was an American daredevil who gained notoriety in the 1960s and 1970s for his death-defying motorcycle stunts. He was best known for his jumps over cars, buses, and other obstacles, often performed in colorful costumes and with his signature helmet. Knievel’s career was marked by both successes and setbacks, but he remained a beloved icon until his death in 2007. Today, people still marvel at his bravery and skill, making him one of the most enduring figures in American culture.

Net Worth and Salary

At the time of his death, Evel Knievel was estimated to have a net worth of approximately $3 million. This amount was primarily derived from his earnings as a stunt performer, which he began doing in the late 1960s. Throughout his career, Knievel performed hundreds of stunts and sold millions of dollars’ worth of merchandise, including toys, T-shirts, and posters.

Early Life and Education

Evel Knievel was born Robert Craig Knievel on October 17, 1938, in Butte, Montana. He was the first of two children born to Robert and Ann Knievel. Knievel grew up in poverty and dropped out of high school in his sophomore year. He worked a variety of odd jobs to make ends meet, including mining, selling insurance, and driving a truck.

Career

Knievel’s career as a stunt performer began in the late 1960s, when he began jumping over cars and other obstacles on his motorcycle. He quickly gained fame for his daring exploits and became known as the “King of the Daredevils.” Knievel’s stunts were often televised and he became a household name in the United States. However, his career was also marked by numerous crashes and injuries, some of which were serious.

Personal Life

Evel Knievel was married twice and had four children. He was known for his flashy lifestyle, which included wearing custom-made suits and driving expensive cars. Knievel also struggled with substance abuse throughout his life, which contributed to some of the personal and professional setbacks he faced.

Illness and Death

Evel Knievel died on November 30, 2007, at the age of 69. He had been struggling with health problems for several years, including diabetes and pulmonary fibrosis. Knievel’s death was widely mourned by his fans and colleagues, who remembered him as a true American hero.

Real Estate

Evel Knievel owned several properties throughout his life, including a ranch in Montana and a home in Florida. In 2006, he sold his Montana ranch for $1.8 million, which was later turned into a museum in his honor. Knievel’s other properties were sold after his death, with the proceeds going to his estate.

Legacy

Evel Knievel’s legacy as a daredevil and cultural icon has endured long after his death. His influence can be seen in countless movies, TV shows, and music videos, as well as in the careers of modern-day stunt performers. Knievel’s name is also synonymous with bravery and risk-taking, making him an enduring symbol of American courage and determination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What was Evel Knievel’s most famous stunt?

Evel Knievel’s most famous stunt was his attempt to jump the Snake River Canyon in Idaho in 1974. Knievel built a specially designed rocket motorcycle for the jump, but it malfunctioned mid-flight and he was forced to deploy a parachute. Despite the setback, the stunt was a major media event and cemented Knievel’s status as a cultural icon.

2. How many jumps did Evel Knievel perform?

Evel Knievel performed hundreds of jumps throughout his career, many of which were televised. His most famous jumps include the Caesar’s Palace fountain jump in Las Vegas and the Wembley Stadium jump in London.

3. How did Evel Knievel get his start as a stunt performer?

Evel Knievel got his start as a stunt performer in the late 1960s, when he began jumping over snakes and other obstacles at local events. He soon began performing bigger and more daring stunts, and was eventually discovered by a promoter who helped him launch his career.

4. Was Evel Knievel ever seriously injured during a stunt?

Yes, Evel Knievel was seriously injured during several stunts throughout his career. In 1968, he suffered a broken pelvis and other injuries during a jump at the Cow Palace in California. He also suffered numerous broken bones and other injuries during jumps at Caesar’s Palace and Wembley Stadium.

5. Did Evel Knievel ever retire from stunt performing?

Evel Knievel officially retired from stunt performing in 1981, after several years of declining health and numerous injuries. He continued to make public appearances and promote his brand until his death in 2007.

6. What was Evel Knievel’s personal life like?

Evel Knievel was married twice and had four children. He was known for his flashy lifestyle, which included wearing custom-made suits and driving expensive cars. Knievel also struggled with substance abuse throughout his life, which contributed to some of the personal and professional setbacks he faced.

7. Did Evel Knievel have any hobbies or interests outside of stunt performing?

Evel Knievel was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was also interested in baseball and boxing, and was a fierce competitor in both sports.

8. What is the Evel Knievel Museum?

The Evel Knievel Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and career of Evel Knievel. It is located in his former ranch in Montana and features numerous exhibits and artifacts related to his stunts and personal life. The museum attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a popular destination for fans of the daredevil.