Hollywood Loses Stunt Icon Bob Yerkes At 92, Star Of 'Return of the Jedi' & A Mentor To Many Stars
Hollywood stunt icon Bob Yerkes, who thrilled audiences with daring feats in 'Back to the Future' and 'Return of the Jedi', has sadly died at 92. His legacy and contributions are unforgettable. Watch the above video for his impactful legacy!
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00:00Bob Yerkes, a Hollywood stunt legend, has passed away at the age of 92.
00:05Known for his incredible stunts in films like Back to the Future and Return of the Jedi,
00:10Yerkes leaves behind a legacy that spans over seven decades.
00:14His daring feats and dedication to the craft have made him a beloved figure in the stunt community and beyond.
00:22Bob Yerkes died of natural causes on Tuesday in Northridge, Los Angeles.
00:27His passing was confirmed by fellow stunt performer Darlene Eva Williams, one of his many mentees.
00:33Despite his age, Yerkes remained active in the stunt industry for decades,
00:38continuing to inspire others up until his death.
00:43Yerkes was no ordinary stuntman.
00:45He began his career in the circus, mastering skills like tightrope walking and trapeze.
00:51Over time, he became a Hollywood staple, performing dangerous stunts in movies like Back to the Future,
00:57where he famously slid down a clock tower cable,
01:00and Return of the Jedi, where he took on the role of Boba Fett in a special scene filmed in his own backyard.
01:08Yerkes wasn't just known for his stunts, he mentored many in the industry.
01:13Helping train future stars, his backyard became a training ground for actors and stunt performers.
01:19And he was even credited with inventing the stunt airbag.
01:22Loved and respected by peers, he was a true stunt legend who brought action to life on the big screen.
01:30Bob Yerkes will be remembered for his daring stunts, his kindness, and the impact he made on Hollywood and the stunt world.