Alvin ‘Shipwreck’ Kelly
Alvin 'Shipwreck' Kelly, a renowned wrestler and football player, gained fame in the WWF for his exceptional skills, capturing the WWF Tag Team Championship twice alongside Don Muraco.
Daredevil
October 11, 1952
New York, New York
Alvin Kelly, known as “Shipwreck” Kelly, was a legendary stuntman who captivated audiences with his daring feats and fearless spirit. Born on December 20, 1946, in San Diego, California, Kelly’s passion for adventure and motorcycles led him to a remarkable career in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1970s and beyond, Kelly performed a diverse range of stunts, including high-speed motorcycle jumps, car crashes, and even wing-walking on airplanes. His willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of human capability made him one of the most sought-after stuntmen in the industry.
One of Kelly’s most iconic achievements was his successful jump over the Snake River Canyon in Idaho in 1974. This death-defying stunt, spanning 1,500 feet (457 meters) and a height of 700 feet (213 meters), garnered international attention and solidified his status as a stuntman extraordinaire.
Kelly’s exceptional talent and contributions to the world of stunts were widely recognized. He was inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records for his record-breaking jumps and received the prestigious stuntman award from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kelly was known for his kind and compassionate nature. He actively engaged in charitable work, using his platform to raise funds for various causes. Kelly was also a devoted family man, cherishing time spent with his wife and children.
An interesting anecdote about Kelly’s nickname, “Shipwreck,” stems from an incident during a stunt where he crashed into a shipwreck. Additionally, he showcased his skills in popular movies and TV shows such as “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “Knight Rider,” and “The A-Team.”
Remarkably, Kelly’s meticulous planning and safety precautions allowed him to execute his stunts without sustaining major injuries throughout his career. This dedication to safety further solidified his reputation as a true professional in the stunt industry.
Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly’s legacy as a daredevil and Hollywood stuntman remains unparalleled. His fearless spirit, exceptional talent, and commitment to his craft continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.