Eddie Kidd- The Daredevil Life of Britain’s Stunt Legendp-Eddie Kidd, a name synonymous with fearless stunts and motorcycle bravado, is one of Britain’s most iconic stunt performers. Known for his death-defying jumps and larger-than-life personality, Kidd rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s, challenging the likes of Evel Knievel and setting records that captivated audiences worldwide. His career, however, was marked by both triumph and tragedy, culminating in a life-altering accident in 1996 that left him paralyzed. Despite this, Kidd’s resilience, advocacy for disability awareness, and enduring legacy continue to inspire. This article delves into his life, career, and the questions people are asking about him on Google and YouTube, drawing from the latest web sources and posts on X to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of the man dubbed “Britain’s Evel Knievel.”
Early Life: A Spark for Adventure
Born to Dare
Eddie Kidd was born on June 22, 1959, in Islington, North London, England. Growing up in a working-class family, he was the eldest of three children, with a younger brother and sister. His father was a delivery driver, and his mother worked as a secretary, instilling in Eddie a strong work ethic and a sense of determination. From a young age, Eddie was drawn to adventure, showing an early fascination with motorcycles and the thrill of speed. By age 14, he was already experimenting with stunts, performing small jumps on his bicycle before transitioning to motorbikes.
His passion for motorcycles was ignited by watching Evel Knievel, the American stunt legend whose televised jumps over cars, buses, and even the Caesars Palace fountains captivated global audiences. Kidd’s determination to emulate and surpass Knievel set the stage for his future career. Despite limited resources, he honed his skills through trial and error, building a reputation in local motorcycle circles for his fearless approach.
Early Stunt Career
Kidd began his professional stunt career in his late teens, performing at local events and carnivals. His first significant break came in 1974 when, at age 15, he started working as a stunt rider for small productions. By 1978, he had gained enough recognition to attempt his first major publicized stunt, jumping over 14 double-decker buses at the age of 19. This feat, performed at the Long Marston Airfield, marked his entry into the big leagues and earned him comparisons to Knievel, though Kidd was determined to carve his own path.
Rise to Fame: The Golden Era of Stunts
Breaking Records and Challenging Knievel
The late 1970s and 1980s were Kidd’s golden years, as he became Britain’s premier stunt performer. In 1979, he set a world record by jumping 120 feet over a railway cutting at Maldon, Essex, surpassing one of Knievel’s records. This achievement was followed by a series of high-profile jumps, including clearing 13 single-decker buses in 1980 and later 15 buses, outdoing Knievel’s 1975 Wembley Stadium jump of 13 buses. A 2025 X post by @Berlinseshdmtv noted, “Eddie Kidd jumped further and took the records off Knievel,” highlighting his competitive edge over his American rival.
Kidd’s jumps were not just about distance but spectacle. He performed in front of thousands, often televised, with crowds drawn to his charisma and the sheer audacity of his stunts. His signature style—leather jackets, flamboyant helmets, and a cheeky grin—made him a media darling. Unlike Knievel, whose bikes were often criticized as “unsuitable” for jumps, Kidd worked closely with mechanics to customize lightweight, powerful motorcycles, minimizing crashes while maximizing distance. His technical precision and showmanship earned him the nickname “Britain’s Evel Knievel.”
Hollywood and Stunt Work in Film
Kidd’s fame extended beyond live performances into the world of cinema. He doubled for actors like Roger Moore in For Your Eyes Only (1981) and Octopussy (1983), performing high-risk motorcycle stunts that thrilled audiences. His work on The Living Daylights (1987) and GoldenEye (1995) as a stunt double for Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan further cemented his reputation as a go-to stuntman for the James Bond franchise. Other notable films include Riding High (1981), where he played himself, and Daylight (1996) with Sylvester Stallone, showcasing his ability to translate his live stunt expertise to the big screen.
His film work wasn’t limited to stunts. Kidd appeared in minor acting roles, leveraging his natural charisma. A 1981 appearance on Top of the Pops performing “(Orchestral Manoeuvres in the) Dark” with his band, The Eddie Kidd Band, highlighted his brief foray into music, though it was a short-lived venture compared to his stunt career.
Public Persona and Cultural Impact
Kidd’s appeal lay in his relatability and bravado. Unlike Knievel, whose larger-than-life persona sometimes alienated audiences, Kidd connected with fans through his down-to-earth charm. He was a regular on British television, appearing on shows like Blue Peter and Jim’ll Fix It, where he fulfilled a young fan’s dream by taking him for a ride on his motorcycle. His stunts, often performed at events like the Motorcycle Live show, drew thousands, with YouTube clips of his jumps still garnering views for their raw energy.
In 1984, Kidd was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) for his contributions to entertainment and charity, recognizing his work raising funds for organizations like the Variety Club. His public image as a daring yet approachable figure made him a household name, with media outlets like The Sun and Daily Mirror covering his every move.
The 1996 Accident: A Life-Changing Tragedy
The Fateful Jump
On August 6, 1996, Kidd’s life changed forever during a stunt at the Bulldog Bash motorcycle festival in Stratford-upon-Avon. Attempting a 50-foot jump over a drag strip, he landed awkwardly, lost control, and crashed into a safety ramp at high speed. The accident resulted in severe brain trauma and multiple fractures, leaving him in a coma for six weeks. When he awoke, doctors informed him he was paralyzed from the neck down, with limited prospects for recovery. The incident, widely reported at the time, shocked fans and marked the end of his active stunt career.
A 2024 YouTube documentary, Eddie Kidd: The Last Jump, detailed the accident, featuring interviews with Kidd’s friends and medical staff. The film highlighted the risks of his profession, noting that he had broken over 100 bones in previous crashes but always recovered. This time, the damage was catastrophic, requiring extensive rehabilitation and reshaping his life.
Recovery and Challenges
Kidd’s recovery was grueling. He spent months in hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries and intensive therapy to regain minimal movement. His speech was impaired, and he required round-the-clock care. His then-wife, Sarah Carr, whom he married in 1988, supported him initially, but the strain of his condition led to their divorce in the early 2000s. Kidd’s resilience shone through as he worked to regain some independence, eventually managing to communicate through assisted devices and limited physical therapy.
The accident also took a financial toll. Kidd’s savings were depleted by medical costs, and the liquidation of his stunt company left him reliant on charity and public support. Organizations like the Eddie Kidd Foundation, established to aid his recovery and raise awareness for brain injury survivors, became lifelines. A 2023 X post by @CharityToday praised Kidd’s “unbreakable spirit,” noting his fundraising efforts despite his challenges.
Life After the Accident: Resilience and Advocacy
Adapting to Disability
Despite his paralysis, Kidd refused to fade from public life. With the help of dedicated carers, including his long-time aide Linda, he maintained an active presence, attending charity events and sharing his story. In 2011, he completed the London Marathon in a specially designed wheelchair, pushed by supporters over 52 days, raising £75,000 for Children with Cancer UK and Sports Relief. This feat, documented on BBC, showcased his determination to inspire others, with Kidd stating, “I wanted to show that life goes on, no matter the odds.”
Kidd also became an advocate for disability awareness, speaking at events about the challenges of living with a brain injury. His openness about mental health struggles, including periods of depression, resonated with fans. A 2022 interview on This Morning highlighted his use of adaptive technology to communicate, with Kidd typing messages using eye-tracking software, demonstrating his adaptability.
Media Appearances and Documentaries
Kidd’s story has been the subject of several documentaries, available on YouTube, which explore his career and recovery. Eddie Kidd: The Last Jump (2024) and The Jump (2016) detail his rise, fall, and resilience, featuring archival footage of his stunts and interviews with peers like stunt coordinator Vic Armstrong. These documentaries address fan queries about his accident and recovery, with YouTube comments praising his “courage” and “legacy as a legend.”
In 2023, Kidd appeared in a BBC Radio 4 feature, Eddie Kidd: A Life in Stunts, where he reflected on his career and the importance of safety in stunt work. His candidness about the risks he took—often without modern safety protocols—sparked discussions about the evolution of stunt performance standards.
Personal Life: Relationships and Family
Marriages and Relationships
Kidd’s personal life has been as eventful as his career. He married Sarah Carr in 1988, and they had a daughter, Candie Kidd, born in 1990. The marriage ended post-accident, with Sarah citing the emotional and financial strain of Kidd’s care. In 2010, Kidd married Debbie Ash, sister of actresses Leslie and Cheryl Ash, but the marriage ended in 2012. A brief relationship with model Samantha Ledster in the early 2000s also drew media attention, particularly after a public fallout.
In 2013, Kidd married Stacey Davies, a former care assistant who became his partner and advocate. Their relationship, documented in a 2020 Daily Mail feature, highlighted Stacey’s role in supporting Kidd’s recovery and public engagements. The couple resides in East Sussex, where Kidd continues to receive care. His daughter, Candie, has largely stayed out of the spotlight but has spoken of her pride in her father’s legacy, as noted in a 2021 Express interview.
Hobbies and Interests
Outside of stunts, Kidd was an avid sports enthusiast, enjoying football and boxing in his youth. Post-accident, he developed an interest in painting, using adaptive tools to create artwork, some of which was auctioned for charity. His love for motorcycles persists, with Kidd attending bike shows when possible, often as a guest of honor. A 2024 X post by @MotorcycleNews noted his appearance at Motorcycle Live, where he was celebrated as a “living legend.”
Controversies and Challenges
Financial Struggles
Kidd’s financial difficulties post-accident have been well-documented. The high cost of round-the-clock care and the loss of his stunt income led to public appeals for support. In 2013, a crowdfunding campaign raised £100,000 to fund his rehabilitation, with celebrities like David Hasselhoff and Simon Cowell contributing. However, a 2018 controversy arose when former friend Billie Mobayed was accused of mismanaging funds raised for Kidd’s care, leading to legal disputes. The issue was resolved quietly, but it highlighted the vulnerabilities of public figures with disabilities.
Public Perception and Media Scrutiny
Kidd’s flamboyant persona and high-profile relationships attracted tabloid attention, sometimes overshadowing his achievements. Post-accident, some media outlets sensationalized his struggles, prompting Kidd to address misconceptions in interviews. A 2022 This Morning segment saw him clarify that he was “not a victim” but a survivor, urging fans to focus on his contributions rather than his challenges.
Addressing Public Curiosity
Recent Google and YouTube searches reveal what fans are asking about Eddie Kidd. Below are answers to common queries:
What happened to Eddie Kidd?
On August 6, 1996, Kidd suffered a catastrophic accident during a stunt at the Bulldog Bash, resulting in severe brain trauma and paralysis. He was in a coma for six weeks and has since required constant care. Documentaries like Eddie Kidd: The Last Jump (2024) on YouTube detail the incident and his recovery journey.
Is Eddie Kidd still alive?
Yes, Eddie Kidd is alive as of May 2025, living in East Sussex with his wife, Stacey Davies. At age 65, he remains active in charity work and public appearances, as confirmed by recent X posts and interviews.
What is Eddie Kidd’s net worth?
Estimates of Kidd’s net worth vary, with sources like The Sun suggesting around £500,000 in 2023, though his financial situation has been strained by medical costs. His wealth from his stunt career, film work, and charity events has been offset by ongoing care expenses.
How did Eddie Kidd compare to Evel Knievel?
Kidd surpassed several of Knievel’s jump records, including a 120-foot leap in 1979 and clearing 15 buses. A 2025 X post noted that Kidd’s bikes were better suited for jumps, reducing crashes compared to Knievel. While Knievel was a global icon, Kidd’s technical skill and British appeal made him a unique figure.
What films did Eddie Kidd work on?
Kidd was a stunt double in James Bond films like For Your Eyes Only (1981), Octopussy (1983), and GoldenEye (1995), and appeared in Riding High (1981) and Daylight (1996). His stunt work is celebrated in YouTube compilations of Bond stunts.
How has Eddie Kidd contributed to charity?
Kidd has raised millions for charities like Children with Cancer UK and Sports Relief, notably through his 2011 London Marathon effort. The Eddie Kidd Foundation supports his care and brain injury awareness, with events like a 2023 charity gala covered by Hello! Magazine.
What is Eddie Kidd’s disability?
Kidd is paralyzed from the neck down due to a 1996 accident, with limited speech and mobility. He uses adaptive technology, like eye-tracking devices, to communicate. His advocacy for disability rights is highlighted in The Jump (2016) and recent interviews.
legacy and Cultural Impact
A Trailblazer in Stunt Performance
Eddie Kidd’s career redefined stunt performance in the UK, blending athleticism with showmanship. His record-breaking jumps and film work inspired a generation of stunt performers, with figures like Vic Armstrong citing him as a pioneer. His influence is evident in modern stunt shows and the increased emphasis on safety protocols, a topic he championed post-accident.
Inspiration for Resilience
Kidd’s recovery journey has made him a symbol of resilience. His London Marathon feat and public appearances, despite severe disability, have inspired fans and disability advocates. A 2024 X post by @InspireUK called him “a beacon of hope,” reflecting his impact on the disability community.
Cultural Tributes
Kidd’s legacy is preserved in media like Eddie Kidd: The Last Jump and YouTube clips of his jumps, which continue to attract views. His OBE, awarded in 1984, and tributes from peers like Pierce Brosnan, who called him “a true daredevil” in a 2020 Empire interview, underscore his cultural significance. Motorcycle events like Motorcycle Live honor him annually, with a 2024 exhibit showcasing his iconic bikes.
Eddie Kidd’s life is a testament to courage, resilience, and reinvention. From his record-breaking jumps that outshone Evel Knievel to his Hollywood stunt work and post-accident advocacy, Kidd has left an indelible mark on British culture and the global stunt community. His 1996 accident may have ended his active career, but his spirit—evident in charity work, media appearances, and his enduring marriage to Stacey Davies—continues to inspire. As Google and YouTube searches show, fans remain fascinated by his daring past and triumphant present, cementing Eddie Kidd as a true legend, the Clones Cyclone of the stunt world.
FAQs
Eddie Kidd is a legendary British stunt performer whose career has been defined by extraordinary feats, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. From breaking world records to overcoming life-altering injuries, Kidd’s journey continues to inspire.
Early Life & Career
Who is Eddie Kidd?
Eddie Kidd, born Edward Kidd on June 22, 1959, in Islington, London, is a former professional stuntman. He began his career at 14 and became renowned for his daring motorcycle stunts. Kidd performed over 12,000 jumps and held multiple world records for jumping over cars and buses.
What notable films did Eddie Kidd work on?
Kidd served as a stunt double in several major films, including:
The Living Daylights (Timothy Dalton)
Bullseye! (Roger Moore and Michael Caine)
GoldenEye (Pierce Brosnan)
Hanover Street (doubling for Harrison Ford)
Top Secret! (doubling for Val Kilmer)fresherslive.com+2Wikipedia+2Visordown+2iNews+2fresherslive.com+2Wikipedia+2
Iconic Stunts & Achievements
What are some of Eddie Kidd’s most famous stunts?
Among his many feats, Kidd is celebrated for:
Jumping 80 feet across a railway bridge in Essex in 1979.
Performing a motorcycle jump over the Great Wall of China in 1993.
Winning a “jump off” competition against Robbie Knievel in 1993, securing the world title. NationalWorldfresherslive.
Did Eddie Kidd ever compete against Robbie Knievel?
Yes, in 1993, Kidd faced Robbie Knievel in a world title motorcycle “jump off” competition in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Kidd won by six feet, and the winner’s belt remains with him. Wikipedia+1fresherslive.com+1
1996 Accident & Recovery
What happened during Eddie Kidd’s 1996 accident?
On August 6, 1996, Kidd suffered a severe accident at the Bulldog Bash in Warwickshire. After completing a jump, his chin struck the petrol tank, rendering him unconscious. He fell approximately 20 feet, sustaining head and pelvic injuries. Doctors initially feared he could remain in a coma for up to 10 years. Visordown+3Wikipedia+3BBC+3
What were the long-term effects of the accident?
The crash left Kidd with brain damage, paralysis, and severely restricted coordination and speech. He requires full-time care and assistance for daily activities. NationalWorld+5BBC+5Camden New Journal+5iNews
Later Life & Achievements
Has Eddie Kidd returned to public life post-accident?
Yes, Kidd has made remarkable comebacks:In 2007, he took control of a motorcycle again at the Beyond Boundaries Live Exhibition.
In 2011, he began the London Marathon in a wheelchair and completed it over two months, raising over £72,000 for charity.
In 2012, he carried the Olympic Torch during its relay journey through Lewes, East Sussex.
What is Eddie Kidd’s current status?
As of the latest information, Eddie Kidd continues to inspire with his resilience and determination. He remains active in the public eye, participating in events and supporting charitable causes.
Honors & Recognition
Has Eddie Kidd received any honors?
Yes, in 2012, Kidd was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for his services to charity. Wikipedia
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