Evel Knievel (2004) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

Caesars Palace preparation for the famous jump

The film opens with Knievel preparing to jump the fountains at Caesars Palace in front of a large Las Vegas crowd. The sequence emphasizes the spectacle and risk that would define his career. This moment frames his ascent from underdog stunt rider to a national icon of danger and bravado.

When

New Year's Eve 1967

Where

Caesars Palace, Las Vegas

Youthful thrill-seeking in Butte

In a 1950 flashback, 12-year-old Bobby Knievel steals hubcaps and is chased before being arrested. The incident foreshadows the impulsive, thrill-seeking streak that would drive his later stunt-filled life.

When

1950

Where

Butte, Montana

From mining to showmanship: a turning point

In 1958, while working for the Anaconda Mining Company, Knievel observes the lung damage suffered by older miners and decides to make a living as a motorcycle stunt performer. He begins the transition from mining to showman, drawn by the lure of crowds and danger. This marks the turning point that leads to his future fame as a fearless daredevil.

When

1958

Where

Anaconda, Montana

Meeting Linda Bork and starting a family

Knievel meets Linda Bork, and they marry, starting a family with two sons, Kelly and Robbie. The film contrasts their domestic life with his rising notoriety as a stunt rider. The family becomes central to his story even as his career pushes him toward greater risks.

Deal to jump Caesars Palace on New Year's Eve 1967

Knievel lands a deal to perform the Caesars Palace fountain jump on New Year's Eve 1967. John Derek and Linda Evans film the event, turning it into a televised spectacle. The upcoming stunt raises the stakes for Knievel personally and for his audience.

When

New Year's Eve 1967

Where

Caesars Palace, Las Vegas

The Caesars jump and crash

During the jump, Knievel clears the fountains but is thrown off the motorcycle by the force of the landing. He sustains multiple fractures, including his pelvis, and falls into a coma. The accident ends the immediate phase of his career and triggers a long recovery.

When

Late 1967 – Early 1968

Where

Caesars Palace, Las Vegas

Hospital recovery and prognosis

Knievel remains hospitalized while doctors insert metal rods to stabilize his broken bones. The medical team tells Linda that Knievel will likely never jump again. Yet upon leaving the hospital, he stubbornly declares that he will resume jumping, including a Grand Canyon stunt.

When

1968

Where

Hospital (Las Vegas)

Comeback ambitions and marital strain

Back home, Knievel's determination to come back clashes with Linda, who fears for his safety and their family. Their conflict illustrates the personal cost of chasing fame through dangerous feats. The tension mirrors his ongoing drive to return to the spotlight.

When

1968-1969

Where

Las Vegas

Ideal Toy Company takes notice

In 1970, an Ideal Toy Company employee witnesses Knievel's performances and suggests merchandise opportunities. The company launches a line of Evel Knievel action figures, expanding his brand beyond the arena. The merchandising boom cements his status as a pop-culture icon.

When

1970

Rafting tragedy with John Bork

During a rafting trip with his two sons and father-in-law John Bork, the raft capsizes and John is washed away by the river. Knievel is unable to reach him in time, and John’s death casts a long shadow over his personal life. The tragedy adds a somber chapter to a life built on spectacle.

When

1970

Where

Rafting trip (location not specified)

Canadian National Exhibition appearance with his sons

On August 20, 1974, Knievel has his sons ride with him during the Canadian National Exhibition performance. The scene demonstrates his continued appeal to families while preparing for his ambitious Snake River Canyon plan. The event foreshadows the dangerous stunts to come.

When

August 20, 1974

Where

Canadian National Exhibition

Snake River Canyon test jumps and the main jump announcement

Unable to secure a permit to jump the Grand Canyon, Knievel conducts rocket-assisted test jumps over Snake River Canyon. These early jumps set the stage for the planned main event and generate anticipation and controversy.

When

August–September 1974

Where

Snake River Canyon

September 8, 1974: Skycycle X-2 jump and crash

On September 8, 1974, Knievel attempts the Skycycle X-2 jump across Snake River Canyon. The parachute deploys early, and drag prevents him from reaching the intended landing, but he survives the crash. The stunt draws intense media scrutiny and public reaction.

When

September 8, 1974

Where

Snake River Canyon

Aftermath and public reaction

The public is dissatisfied with the failed stunt, and the media criticizes Knievel for his latest gamble. Despite the backlash, the event further cements his reputation as a fearless showman, provoking ongoing fascination with his persona and limits.

When

September 1974

Where

Snake River Canyon

Kings Island stunt and retirement

In October 1975, Knievel performs fourteen bus jumps at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio to break his previous record. He would retire from motorcycle jumping in 1980 and move to Florida.

When

October 1975

Where

Kings Island, Mason, Ohio