Karl Wallenda was a German-American acrobat who is best known for founding the Flying Wallendas, a famous family troupe of tightrope walkers. His life was marked by remarkable achievements in high-wire performances and tragic ends.
Personal and Family Life
Karl Wallenda was born on January 21, 1904, in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. He had two marriages; first to Martha Schepp, from which he had one child, and later to Helen Kreis, with whom he had two children. His family continued his legacy in acrobatics, with his descendants, including his great-grandson, Nik Wallenda, excelling in similar performances.
Death and Legacy
Karl Wallenda died on March 22, 1978, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, after falling while attempting to perform an acrobatic stunt between two skyscrapers. His tragic death brought attention to the dangers of high-wire performances but also left a lasting legacy as a pioneer in the world of circus arts. The Flying Wallendas continue to perform, honoring his memory and contributions to the acrobatic community.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Great Wallendas | 1978 | Self |
| The DuPont Show of the Week | 1961 | Self |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961 | Self |
| Ring of Fear | 1954 | Trapeze Performer (uncredited) |