This is Us star Milo Ventimiglia will play the title role in USA Network's upcoming limited series Evel.
In a press release, USA Network revealed the limited series -- which is based on the life of daredevil Evel Knievel, will look at the lead-up to his jumping of Idaho's Snake River Canyon in 1974. The stunt saw Knievel attempting to jump his Skycycle X-2 across the canyon. The stunt failed, though Knievel suffered only minor injuries.
Evel will be written and executive produced by Etan Frankel (Sorry For Your Loss), with McG, Mary Viola, Steven Bello, Alex Gartner, Charles Roven, Topher Rhys-Lawrence, Russ Cundiff and Ventimiglia also serving as producers. Production begins in 2020.
“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 thrill seekers of all time?,” Entertainment Networks – USA Network and SYFY President Chris McCumber said. “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.”
Ventimiglia is known for his role as Jack Pearson on This is Us, for which he's earned three Emmy nominations. He also played Jess in Gilmore Girls.
No release date for the series has been announced at this time.