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Hal NeedhamAmerican stuntman and film director.
Date of Birth: 06.03.1931
Country: ![]() |
Content:
Biography of Hal Needham
Hal Needham was an American stuntman and film director. He began his career as a regular stuntman, but his exceptional abilities helped him achieve impressive success. He eventually became a stunt coordinator and a successful director.

Early Life and Career
Needham was born in Memphis, Tennessee, to Howard Needham and Edith May. He spent his childhood in Arkansas and Missouri. During the Korean War, he served as a paratrooper before transitioning to a more peaceful profession. He started as a model for 'Viceroy' cigarettes and later became a stuntman in Hollywood.

Although it took time for Needham to succeed as a stuntman, working with Richard Boone in the popular western series 'Have Gun, Will Travel' helped boost his career. He also benefited from the guidance of Chuck Roberson, who had previously worked with John Wayne. Needham became one of the most famous and skilled stuntmen in Hollywood, frequently doubling for Clint Walker and Burt Reynolds.

Directing and Inventions
As Needham's career progressed, he transitioned to a more behind-the-scenes role, coordinating stunts and directing action. He also engaged in inventing and improving equipment for stunt performers, including safety airbags. In 1971, Needham, along with fellow stuntmen Glenn Wilder and Ronnie Rondell, founded the project 'Stunts Unlimited.'
He tried his hand at screenwriting and directing, with one of his notable works being the film 'Smokey and the Bandit,' which he directed from his own screenplay. Reynolds, his longtime friend, recommended Needham to bring the script to life, and he played the lead role in the film. 'Smokey and the Bandit' became a hit, leading to several more successful collaborations between Needham and Reynolds, such as 'Hooper,' 'The Cannonball Run,' and 'Stroker Ace.' Needham also directed the cult BMX film 'Rad.'
Later Life and Legacy
In his later years, Needham shifted his focus to support the 'World Land Speed Record' project. He launched the 'Budweiser Rocket' program in an attempt to set a land speed record. Despite their efforts, his team did not officially achieve the record. Needham's ownership of the 'Harry Gant Skoal Bandit #33' car in the 'Winston Cup' racing series made him well-known in the 1980s.
Needham received the 'Taurus World Stunt Awards' for his numerous achievements in the field of stunts. In 2012, he was awarded the prestigious 'Governors' Award' by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, presented to him by Quentin Tarantino. Needham passed away in 2013 at the age of 82 after a brief battle with cancer.