Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Daredevils Of Hollywood 38-04-29 ep02 Cliff Lyons"

Release Date: May 29, 2025

Introduction

In this riveting episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Daredevils Of Hollywood 38-04-29 ep02 Cliff Lyons", host Kurt Foreman delves deep into the perilous yet exhilarating world of Hollywood stuntmen. Featuring an exclusive interview with renowned stuntman Cliff Lyons, the episode sheds light on the behind-the-scenes bravery, meticulous planning, and unpredictable dangers that define the profession.

Meet Cliff Lyons: Hollywood's Unsung Hero

Cliff Lyons is introduced as one of Hollywood's top stunt performers, whose contributions have brought countless on-screen action sequences to life. Kurt Foreman sets the stage by highlighting Cliff's extensive experience and willingness to share firsthand accounts of his most daring stunts.

Kurt Foreman [06:38]: "Ladies and gentlemen, it is our pleasure to present the courageous young man who daily laughs in the face of death and who made that scene, Cliff Lyons..."

The Daring Train Scene

One of the episode's focal points is Cliff's recounting of a high-stakes train stunt orchestrated by director Francis Ford. The scene required Cliff to navigate a car alongside an oncoming train, culminating in a heart-stopping transition from the vehicle to the train itself.

• Planning and Precision: The stunt was meticulously rehearsed three times, with precise timing essential to ensure safety.

• Execution Under Pressure: As the director cues the start, tension mounts. Cliff describes the intense moments as two trains approach head-on, barely allowing him the time to execute the maneuver.

Cliff Lyons [06:56]: "All I was interested in was getting through that window."

Director [05:02]: "That was a sweet jump, Bill. You got out just in time. You all right?"

Despite the chaos and the near-miss moment when the roof nearly collapses, Cliff successfully completes the stunt, underscoring both his expertise and the inherent risks of the profession.

Cliff Lyons [06:09]: "He's all right."

The Treacherous Stagecoach Gag

Cliff further shares a harrowing experience involving a stagecoach stunt gone awry. Set in Calabasas, California, the scene was intended to showcase a runaway stagecoach navigating a steep mountain curve before plunging off an embankment.

• Unexpected Complications: Mid-action, the horses controlling the stagecoach become uncontrollable, leading to a dangerous descent.

Cliff Lyons [09:34]: "Oh, I guess somebody got excited and didn't pull the cable soon enough."

• Aftermath and Reflection: Fortunately, Cliff sustains only minor injuries—scratches and a bruised arm—but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the thin line between success and disaster in stunt work.

Cliff Lyons [09:24]: "No, just scratched up a little. The wagon run over my arm and bruised a little bit, but I was okay."

The Grim Reality: Dangers and Statistics

The conversation shifts to the broader dangers stuntmen face in the film industry. Cliff reveals startling statistics about fatalities and the precarious nature of the job.

Cliff Lyons [10:10]: "Well, I'd say about 300 have been killed since motion pictures started."

He elaborates on the limited number of active stuntmen—approximately 30 recognized professionals—and the concept of "bumpsmen," who perform less dangerous tasks but still face risks.

Cliff Lyons [10:31]: "When a bumpsman makes a mistake, he breaks an arm or a leg. But when a stuntman misses, it's curtains."

Insurance and Financial Realities

Cliff discusses the financial aspects of being a stunt performer, particularly the challenges related to insurance.

Cliff Lyons [10:44]: "Well, now, there's where you're wrong. The cost is terrific..."

He recounts an incident where a producer balked at his stunt price, leading Cliff to offer a significant discount contingent upon the producer securing life insurance. This anecdote highlights the financial burdens and negotiations stuntmen must navigate to ensure their safety and livelihood.

Cliff Lyons [10:56]: "Since that time, we very seldom have any trouble in getting the prices we request."

Final Thoughts and Reflections

As the interview concludes, Cliff reflects on his 17-year career, expressing a sense of resignation mixed with passion for his craft.

Cliff Lyons [10:06]: "Oh, I guess you get used to it."

Despite the dangers, Cliff's dedication to performing high-adrenaline stunts, particularly horse-related feats, underscores his commitment to the art of filmmaking.

Cliff Lyons [07:26]: "That's right. But my favorite is horse stunts. You know, high jumps, falls and dives into water, on horseback, things like that."

Conclusion

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio offers an unflinching look into the high-octane world of Hollywood stuntmen through the eyes of Cliff Lyons. From meticulously planned train sequences to unforeseen stagecoach disasters, Cliff's stories illuminate the bravery, skill, and resilience required to perform tasks that push the boundaries of safety and creativity. The interview not only honors these unsung heroes but also serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence in the Golden Age of Hollywood.

For listeners seeking a deeper appreciation of the dangers and dedication behind their favorite on-screen action sequences, this episode is an essential listen.