Bob Yerkes, a renowned stuntman from Los Angeles County, California, embarked on an extraordinary journey at the tender age of eleven. He began tumbling down at the iconic Santa Monica Muscle Beach, an experience that would lay the foundation for his future endeavors.
As he entered his teenage years, Yerkes made the bold decision to run away from home and join the Clyde Beatty Circus, where he became an integral part of an acrobatic act at the mere age of fifteen. This marked the beginning of his life as a performer, and he would go on to hone his skills in the world of stunts.
Upon his return to Los Angeles in the late 1940s, Yerkes transitioned to the film industry, where he began performing stunts in movies. His illustrious career as a stuntman spanned multiple decades, during which he had the privilege of doubling for some of the most notable figures in Hollywood.
Among his impressive roster of clients were the likes of Paul Newman, Robert Duvall, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Christopher Lloyd, and Della Reese. Yerkes's expertise and versatility as a stuntman allowed him to seamlessly adapt to the unique demands of each actor's role.
In addition to his work as a stuntman, Yerkes also shared his skills with the world by teaching various celebrities circus acts for the popular "Circus of the Stars" TV specials throughout the 1980s. Furthermore, he trained numerous stunt performers in the comfort of his own backyard in Los Angeles, California, passing on his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of stunt professionals.
Throughout his illustrious career, Bob Yerkes has left an indelible mark on the world of stunts, and his contributions continue to inspire and awe audiences to this day.
