Nearly 30 years ago, the television phenomenon known as Jackass burst onto the scene on MTV. Led by Johnny Knoxville and his 11 fellow cast members, the show quickly became a massive hit with its blend of risky stunts and outrageous pranks. While Knoxville was seen as the frontman of the group, it was Steve-O who often took on the most extreme challenges.
In a recent interview with Playboy, Steve-O shared insights into the early days of Jackass, revealing the meager pay they received for putting themselves in harm’s way. Despite the show’s success, Steve-O recalled being broke and homeless, highlighting the vast disparity between fame and fortune.
One of Steve-O’s most memorable stunts involved swallowing and regurgitating a live goldfish, which he did for a mere $200. Reflecting on his early days on the show, he disclosed that he earned just $1,500 for the entire first season, even after enduring dangerous feats like being bitten by a shark.
Before joining Jackass, Steve-O attended Clown College in a bid to establish himself as a serious stunt performer. The original cast of Jackass, including Knoxville and Bam Margera, captivated audiences for three seasons before transitioning to movies and spin-off shows.
The Jackass legacy will culminate with the release of its final film, “Jackass: Best and Last,” marking the end of an era. Steve-O confirmed that this movie will serve as a final celebration of the group’s antics, signaling the definitive conclusion of the beloved franchise.