Evel Knievel, born Robert Craig Knievel, Jr. on October 17, 1938, in Butte, Montana, was a legendary daredevil motorcyclist and cultural icon known for his death-defying stunts. He earned his famous nickname while he was jailed next to a man named Knofel, and the other inmates began to refer to them as "Awful Knofel and Evel Knievel."
In his early years, Knievel showed a passion for motorcycles and began performing stunts at local events. He quickly gained a reputation for his fearlessness and showmanship, which would catapult him to fame in the years to come.
Knievel's career took off when he started performing ambitious stunts, such as jumping over rows of cars at the L.A. Coliseum. One of his most famous feats was attempting to jump over the Snake River Canyon in a steam-powered rocket. Although he failed to clear the canyon, he was inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records for having "the most broken bones in a lifetime."
In 1959, Knievel married Linda Bork, with whom he had two sons, Robbie and Kelly, and two daughters, Tracey and Alicia. Despite their divorce in 1999, Knievel would go on to marry Krystal Kennedy for two years before separating in 2001.
Knievel's legacy lives on through his daring stunts and iconic persona. He inspired a generation of daredevils and became a pop culture icon, with George Hamilton portraying him in the film "Evel Knievel." He will always be remembered for his fearless spirit and willingness to push the limits of what was thought possible.
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