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Remembering Bob Yerkes: Hollywood’s Stunt Legend

Bob Yerkes, the unsung hero behind the death-defying stunts in Hollywood blockbusters, passed away at the age of 92 in Northridge, California. His remarkable career spanned nearly 70 years, during which he fearlessly performed stunts for iconic stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Charles Bronson.

While Yerkes may not have been a household name, his work left a lasting impact on the film industry. From soaring through the air as Boba Fett in “Return of the Jedi” to hanging from a clock tower in “Back to the Future,” Yerkes’ dedication to his craft was unparalleled.

Known for his lack of fear and legendary status among stunt performers, Yerkes was a true pioneer in the field. He endured countless concussions and broken bones, yet his passion for his work never wavered.

Yerkes’ backyard in Northridge served as a training ground for aspiring stunt performers, where he mentored hundreds of individuals looking to follow in his footsteps. His dedication to safety and skillful execution of stunts earned him the respect of his peers and colleagues.

Despite the risks and physical toll of his profession, Yerkes continued to perform well into his 80s, with his final credit in “Killing Hasselhoff” in 2017. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and inspired throughout his illustrious career.

As we bid farewell to Bob Yerkes, we remember him not only as a Hollywood legend but as a mentor, friend, and true pioneer in the world of stunt performance. His fearless spirit and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire generations of stunt performers to come.

Who was Bob Yerkes, and what made him a Tinseltown legend?

Bob Yerkes, a Hollywood stunt double for almost 70 years, passed away on October 1 in Northridge, California, at the age of 92. His death was confirmed by Tree O’Toole, a fellow stunt performer who had been caring for him. Despite being relatively unknown to the general public, Yerkes was a true legend in Tinseltown.

Throughout his illustrious career, Yerkes performed daring stunts for big-screen stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Charles Bronson. In the 1980s, he was involved in iconic scenes such as flying as Boba Fett in “Return of the Jedi” and hanging from a clock tower in “Back to the Future.”

Source: The New York Times

What were some of the memorable stunts that Bob Yerkes performed?

Yerkes, known for his lack of fear and incredible skill, undertook a wide range of challenging stunts in movies like “The Towering Inferno,” “Poltergeist,” and “Ghostbusters.” He also graced television screens with his stunts on shows like “Gilligan’s Island” and “Wonder Woman.”

One of his most impressive feats was swinging across the Sherman Oaks Galleria Mall in Los Angeles like Tarzan to evade capture in “Commando.” Yerkes was always the go-to stuntman for high-flying and dangerous sequences.

How did Bob Yerkes become involved in the world of stunts?

Bob Yerkes’ journey into the world of stunts began at a young age. At 11, he stumbled upon Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, where he met a gymnast named Deforrest Most. Most introduced Yerkes to acrobatics, and from that moment on, Yerkes was hooked.

Yerkes eventually joined the DeWayne Brothers Circus at the age of 15, performing on trampolines, teeter boards, and high wires. His early experiences in the circus laid the foundation for his future career as a stuntman.

What role did religion play in Bob Yerkes’ life?

Despite growing up in a non-religious household, Bob Yerkes had a deep spiritual transformation during his circus days. He delved into the Bible and eventually formed a Bible-reading group for fellow performers.

Yerkes’ faith continued to guide him throughout his life, leading him to serve on the board of the Christian Film & Television Commission. He often credited God’s grace for helping him navigate the dangerous world of stunt work.

How did Bob Yerkes continue his stunt career into his later years?

Many stunt performers retire in their 30s or 40s due to the physical toll of their work. However, Bob Yerkes defied the odds and continued working well into his 80s. His dedication to his craft and his mentorship of younger performers kept him active in the industry.

Yerkes’ last credited role was in “Killing Hasselhoff” in 2017, showcasing his enduring passion for stunt work.

Source: The New York Times