This is Us/ Gilmore Girls actor Milo Ventimiglia has signed on to play daredevil Evel Knievel in a new limited series for USA Network. Deadline is reporting that the new series, written by Etan Frankel (Animal Kingdom), will focus on the period in Knievel’s life when he was preparing for his history Snake River Canyon jump.
Here’s what producer/ director McG had to say about the new show:
“USA Network is known for big event series that celebrate heroes, rebels and icons, and what could be bigger than the story of one of the greatest thrillseekers of all time?” said Chris McCumber, President of Entertainment Networks – USA Network and Syfy. “The incredible life and journey of Evel Knievel lends itself to a dramatic retelling, and we are excited to be partnering with Milo, McG, UCP, Atlas and Wonderland to bring this iconic American tale to our viewers.”
Currently, Ventimiglia can be seen in the film adaptation of Garth Stein’s The Art Of Racing In The Rain with Kevin Costner and Amanda Seyfried.
In the meantime, check out a video of the original Snake River Canyon jump here: