When you hear the name Karmen Knievel, images of roaring motorcycles, breathtaking jumps, and death-defying stunts immediately come to mind. The Knievel family built an empire on courage, risk, and entertainment that captivated millions across America.
But while Evel Knievel and his son Robbie Knievel became household names through their spectacular performances, one family member chose a completely different path.
Karmen Knievel, daughter of legendary stunt performer Robbie Knievel and granddaughter of the iconic Evel Knievel, has lived most of her life away from cameras and crowds. This is her complete story.
Quick Facts About Karmen Knievel
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Karmen Knievel |
| Date of Birth | 1979 |
| Age in 2025 | 45-46 years old |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Current Residence | Missoula, Montana |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) |
| Hair Color | Bleach-blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (German, Irish, Scottish descent) |
| Nationality | American |
| Father | Robbie Knievel (Robert Edward Knievel II) |
| Mother | Linda Knievel |
| Grandfather | Evel Knievel (Robert Craig Knievel) |
| Siblings | Krysten Knievel, Maria Collins (formerly Maria Knievel) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | David Prieto |
| Children | Information not publicly available |
| Occupation | Private citizen, described as “traveling gypsy” |
| Known For | Being daughter of Robbie Knievel, maintaining privacy |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $800,000 – $1 million |
| Social Media Presence | None (no verified public accounts) |
The Knievel Legacy: Understanding the Dynasty
Before diving into Karmen Knievel’s personal story, understanding the weight of the Knievel name is essential.
The Knievel family didn’t just perform stunts—they created an American legend that defined an entire era of entertainment.
Evel Knievel: The Original Daredevil
Evel Knievel, born Robert Craig Knievel in 1938 in Butte, Montana, became the most famous motorcycle daredevil in history.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Evel captivated audiences with his red, white, and blue jumpsuits and fearless attitude.
He attempted over 75 ramp-to-ramp motorcycle jumps throughout his career, including the legendary Caesars Palace fountain jump in Las Vegas and the Snake River Canyon jump.
Evel Knievel broke more than 433 bones during his career, earning him a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Beyond the stunts, he became a cultural icon representing American bravery, showmanship, and the pursuit of the impossible.
He passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire extreme sports athletes worldwide.
Robbie Knievel: Following in Dangerous Footsteps
Robbie Knievel, Karmen’s father, was born on May 7, 1962. Unlike many children of famous parents who struggle to escape their parent’s shadow, Robbie embraced his family heritage and took it even further.
He began riding motorcycles at age four and performed his first show with his father at just eight years old.
Throughout his career, Robbie Knievel completed over 350 jumps and set more than 20 world records. His most notable achievements include:
- Jumping the Grand Canyon
- Clearing the Caesars Palace fountains (completing what his father attempted but crashed during)
- Jumping over a moving train
- Leaping across the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier
- Clearing 30 limousines at the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas
Robbie continued performing until the early 2000s when health issues began to slow him down. He battled pancreatic cancer for several years before passing away on January 13, 2023, at age 60. His death marked the end of an era for the Knievel daredevil dynasty.
The Burden and Blessing of the Knievel Name
Growing up as a Knievel meant carrying tremendous expectations. The family name came with instant recognition, enormous pressure, and the constant shadow of legendary achievements.
For Karmen Knievel, this meant making a choice: follow the family tradition of public spectacle or forge her own private path.
She chose privacy—a decision that makes her story all the more fascinating.
Who is Karmen Knievel?
Karmen Knievel is the eldest daughter of Robbie Knievel and his wife Linda Knievel. Born in 1979, she grew up during the height of her father’s career, watching him perform death-defying stunts that drew massive crowds and media attention.
Unlike her famous father and grandfather, Karmen chose to live life on her own terms, away from the spotlight that defined her family.
Early Life and Childhood
Growing up in the Knievel household was anything but ordinary. Karmen spent her childhood around motorcycle ramps, film crews, and the constant buzz of media attention.
Her father Robbie was frequently traveling for performances, training, and promotional events. Despite the chaos, family members have described Robbie as a devoted father who tried to maintain normalcy for his daughters.
Karmen witnessed firsthand the physical toll that stunt performing took on her family. She saw her father recover from broken bones, watched her grandfather deal with the lasting effects of his injuries, and understood the sacrifices that came with fame. These experiences likely shaped her decision to pursue a different lifestyle.
Physical Appearance and Personal Style
According to available descriptions, Karmen Knievel stands approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall with bleach-blonde hair and blue eyes.
She has a mixed ethnicity background, reflecting the Knievel family’s German, Irish, and Scottish heritage. Photos from family events show her with a casual, down-to-earth style—far from the flashy persona associated with her famous relatives.
Education and Early Interests
Details about Karmen’s education remain private, but sources suggest she attended schools in Montana and possibly other states as her family traveled.
Unlike many celebrity children who attend prestigious private schools, Karmen likely experienced a more grounded upbringing, attending local public schools when possible.
Her interests growing up reportedly included arts, nature, and outdoor activities—fitting for someone raised in Montana’s beautiful landscape. She did not show interest in motorcycle stunts or following in her family’s professional footsteps.
Life Away from the Spotlight: Karmen’s Conscious Choice
In today’s social media-driven world, where celebrity children often become influencers with millions of followers, Karmen Knievel’s choice to remain private is remarkable and rare.
Why Privacy Matters to Karmen
Several factors likely influenced Karmen’s decision to avoid public life:
Witnessing the Cost of Fame: Growing up in the Knievel household, Karmen saw the physical injuries, emotional stress, and constant media scrutiny her family endured. This firsthand experience likely taught her that fame comes with significant drawbacks.
Preserving Normal Relationships: Living privately allows Karmen to build genuine relationships based on who she is rather than her famous last name. Friends and romantic partners can connect with her authentic self rather than the Knievel legacy.
Mental Health and Peace: The pressure of living up to a legendary name can be overwhelming. By stepping away from public expectations, Karmen protects her mental health and finds peace in ordinary life.
Protecting Her Family: If Karmen has children, keeping them away from media attention gives them the gift of a normal childhood—something she likely values based on her own experiences.
The “Traveling Gypsy” Lifestyle
One source described Karmen Knievel as living a “traveling gypsy” lifestyle, suggesting she values experiences and freedom over material possessions and stability.
This nomadic approach to life reflects a different kind of adventure than her family’s motorcycle stunts—one focused on exploration, personal growth, and living in the moment.
This lifestyle might include:
- Traveling between different cities and states
- Working remote or freelance jobs that allow flexibility
- Living in various communities to experience different cultures
- Prioritizing experiences over accumulating wealth or possessions
Social Media Absence
In an era where even the most private celebrities maintain some online presence, Karmen Knievel has no verified social media accounts.
No Instagram showcasing her life, no Twitter sharing opinions, no Facebook connecting with fans. This complete digital absence is almost unheard of for someone connected to such a famous family.
This absence speaks volumes about her commitment to privacy and her refusal to capitalize on her family name for attention or profit.
Relationship with Robbie Knievel: A Father-Daughter Bond
Despite choosing different paths in life, Karmen Knievel shared a meaningful relationship with her father Robbie Knievel.
Growing Up with a Daredevil Dad
Robbie Knievel was known publicly as a fearless stunt performer, but family members describe him as a caring father who loved his daughters deeply.
Despite his demanding career that required extensive travel and training, Robbie made efforts to stay connected with Karmen and her sisters.
Karmen attended some of her father’s performances, witnessing the crowds, excitement, and danger firsthand. These experiences gave her a unique perspective on her father’s work—she saw both the glory and the very real risks he took every time he mounted his motorcycle.
Robbie’s Respect for Her Privacy
In interviews throughout his career, Robbie Knievel occasionally mentioned his daughters but rarely shared specific details about their lives.
This restraint suggests he respected their privacy and understood their desire to live outside the media spotlight. He protected them from unwanted attention, even as his own life remained very public.
The Final Years and Goodbye
When Robbie Knievel was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, his family rallied around him. During his final years battling the disease, Karmen and her sisters reportedly spent time with him, providing support and comfort. His death on January 13, 2023, marked a profound loss for the family.
After Robbie’s passing, the family chose to grieve privately. There were no public statements from Karmen, no media interviews, and no social media posts.
This silence reflected the family’s deeply held value of handling personal matters away from public scrutiny—a value Karmen clearly shares.
Preserving Her Father’s Memory
While Karmen doesn’t seek media attention, she plays an important role in preserving her father’s memory within the family.
She holds stories, memories, and personal moments that the public will never see—the private side of Robbie Knievel that existed beyond the motorcycle ramps and television cameras.
Personal Life and Marriage to David Prieto
Karmen Knievel is married to David Prieto, though details about their relationship remain largely private.
Meeting and Relationship
How and when Karmen met David Prieto has not been publicly shared. It’s likely they connected through mutual friends, possibly in Montana where Karmen currently resides.
Their relationship appears to be built on mutual respect for privacy, as David also maintains a low public profile.
Life in Missoula, Montana
The couple reportedly lives in Missoula, Montana—a city known for its beautiful natural surroundings, outdoor recreation opportunities, and laid-back Western culture. Missoula offers the perfect setting for someone seeking a quiet life away from the spotlight.
With a population of around 75,000 people, Missoula is large enough to offer amenities and opportunities but small enough to maintain a sense of community.
The city’s proximity to mountains, rivers, and wilderness areas aligns perfectly with Karmen’s reported love for nature and outdoor activities.
Children and Family Life
Whether Karmen Knievel and David Prieto have children remains unknown. Given Karmen’s commitment to privacy, any information about potential children is kept strictly within the family.
If she is a mother, she’s likely raising her children away from media attention, giving them the normal childhood experience she values.
The Knievel Sisters: Karmen, Krysten, and Maria
Karmen is one of three daughters in the Robbie Knievel family, each taking their own approach to life and the family legacy.
Krysten Knievel: The More Visible Sister
Krysten Knievel, one of Karmen’s sisters, has occasionally appeared in media related to the Knievel legacy. She maintains some social media presence and has shared family photos and memories, particularly following their father’s death.
In January 2023, Krysten posted a childhood photo on social media with the caption “It hits differently today,” acknowledging her grief while sharing a glimpse into their family life.
Krysten seems to balance honoring the family legacy with maintaining some personal privacy—a middle ground between Karmen’s complete privacy and the public lives of Evel and Robbie.
Maria Collins (formerly Maria Knievel)
Maria Knievel, now known as Maria Collins after marriage, also maintains a relatively private life. Like Karmen, she has chosen not to pursue public attention or capitalize on the family name. Very little information is available about her current life, career, or family.
Sisterly Bonds
While details are scarce, family photos and occasional social media posts from Krysten suggest the three sisters maintain close relationships.
They share the unique experience of growing up as Robbie Knievel’s daughters—an experience no one else can truly understand. This shared history likely creates a strong bond between them.
The sisters support each other through life’s challenges, including their father’s illness and death. They honor his memory together, away from public view, in ways that feel meaningful to them personally.
Karmen Knievel’s Career and Occupation
One of the biggest mysteries surrounding Karmen Knievel is her career. Unlike public figures whose professional lives are well-documented, Karmen’s occupation remains largely unknown.
What We Don’t Know
There are no public records of Karmen working in entertainment, stunt performance, business, or any high-profile industry.
She doesn’t appear to have followed traditional career paths that would generate public records or media attention.
Possible Career Paths
Based on her lifestyle and values, Karmen might be involved in:
Creative Fields: Many people who value privacy and personal expression find fulfillment in arts, writing, or crafts. Karmen may pursue creative work that doesn’t require public visibility.
Holistic or Wellness Industries: Her nomadic lifestyle and focus on experiences over materialism suggest she might be drawn to wellness, yoga instruction, massage therapy, or similar fields.
Remote or Freelance Work: The “traveling gypsy” description suggests work that allows flexibility and mobility. She could be a freelance writer, designer, consultant, or work in any field that can be done remotely.
Hospitality or Tourism: Living in Missoula, Montana—a tourist destination—she might work in hospitality, outdoor guiding, or tourism-related industries.
Complete Privacy: It’s also possible Karmen doesn’t need to work traditionally if she received inheritance from her father or grandfather, allowing her to focus on personal pursuits and family.
The Value of Unknown Work
Whatever Karmen does professionally, her choice to keep it private demonstrates that she values her work for its own sake rather than for public recognition.
This approach contrasts sharply with today’s culture where people often share every career achievement online.
Karmen Knievel Net Worth and Financial Status
Estimating Karmen Knievel’s net worth is challenging due to her private nature, but various factors provide clues.
Estimated Net Worth in 2025
Sources estimate Karmen’s net worth at approximately $800,000 to $1 million. This estimate is based on potential inheritance, property ownership, and any personal earnings.
Sources of Wealth
Family Inheritance: When Evel Knievel passed away in 2007, his estate was divided among family members. Robbie Knievel likely inherited a portion, which may have eventually passed to his daughters. Similarly, Robbie’s death in 2023 likely resulted in inheritance for Karmen and her sisters.
Knievel Brand Licensing: The Knievel name continues to generate revenue through merchandise, licensing deals, documentaries, and media appearances. It’s possible that family members receive royalties or payments from these ongoing ventures.
Personal Earnings: Any income Karmen generates through her own work would contribute to her net worth, though the amount remains unknown.
Property and Assets: If Karmen owns property in Missoula, Montana, or elsewhere, real estate equity would be part of her net worth.
Husband’s Income: If David Prieto has a successful career, his earnings would contribute to their household financial situation, though this wouldn’t technically be Karmen’s individual net worth.
Financial Comparison to Family Members
For context, here’s how Karmen’s estimated net worth compares to other Knievel family members:
| Family Member | Estimated Peak Net Worth |
|---|---|
| Evel Knievel | $3 million (at death in 2007) |
| Robbie Knievel | $2-3 million (at peak of career) |
| Karmen Knievel | $800,000 – $1 million (2025 estimate) |
Money Doesn’t Drive Her Choices
What’s most notable about Karmen’s financial situation is that money doesn’t appear to be her primary motivator. If she wanted to capitalize on her famous name, she could easily earn significantly more through:
- Media appearances and interviews
- Reality television shows
- Social media sponsorships
- Personal appearances at events
- Endorsement deals
- Writing a memoir
Her choice not to pursue these lucrative opportunities demonstrates that she values privacy, peace, and authenticity over wealth—a refreshing perspective in today’s celebrity-obsessed culture.
Why People Are Curious About Karmen Knievel
The public’s fascination with Karmen Knievel is understandable and multifaceted.
The Mystery Factor
Humans are naturally curious about unknowns. When someone connected to fame actively avoids the spotlight, it creates intrigue. People wonder: What is she hiding? Why doesn’t she want attention? What does her life look like?
This mystery makes Karmen more interesting than if she were constantly posting on social media or giving interviews. Her silence speaks louder than words.
Expecting Celebrity Children to Be Public
Society has been conditioned to expect children of famous people to follow in their parents’ footsteps or at least leverage their name for opportunities.
When someone like Karmen rejects this path, it challenges these expectations and makes people curious about her reasoning.
The Legacy Question
Fans of Evel and Robbie Knievel naturally wonder about the next generation. Will anyone continue the daredevil tradition?
What happened to the family after Robbie’s death? Karmen represents a piece of this puzzle that fans want to understand.
Representing an Alternative Path
In a world obsessed with fame, followers, and public validation, Karmen represents an alternative—the courage to be ordinary, to value privacy, and to measure success by personal happiness rather than public recognition. This alternative path resonates with people tired of constant social media pressure.
The Human Side of a Legend
Karmen humanizes the Knievel legacy. While Evel and Robbie were larger-than-life figures performing impossible feats, Karmen reminds us that behind every legend are real people with families, emotions, and choices. She adds depth and dimension to the Knievel story.
Preserving the Knievel Legacy: Karmen’s Unique Role
While Karmen doesn’t perform stunts or seek media attention, she plays a vital role in preserving her family’s legacy.
The Keeper of Private Stories
Karmen holds memories and stories about her father and grandfather that will never appear in documentaries or biographies.
She knows the private moments—the family dinners, the quiet conversations, the fears and doubts that existed behind the bravado. These stories, shared only with family, are an essential part of the complete Knievel legacy.
Protecting the Family’s Dignity
By avoiding exploitation of her family name for profit or attention, Karmen protects the dignity of the Knievel legacy.
She ensures that her family’s story remains authentic rather than becoming a cheap commodity used for reality TV or tabloid headlines.
Setting Boundaries for Future Generations
Karmen’s choice to live privately sets an important precedent for future generations of the Knievel family. She demonstrates that family members can honor their heritage without being consumed by it, that they can respect the past while creating their own futures.
Supporting from Behind the Scenes
Though we don’t see her publicly, Karmen likely supports Knievel legacy projects behind the scenes. She may provide input on documentaries, approve the use of family photos, or offer guidance on how her father and grandfather should be remembered. This quiet support is valuable even if it goes unrecognized.
Living Her Own Legacy
Perhaps most importantly, Karmen is creating her own legacy—one defined not by motorcycle jumps or public spectacle, but by authentic living, meaningful relationships, and personal fulfillment. This different kind of legacy is equally valuable and shows that courage comes in many forms.
The Future of the Knievel Name and Legacy
With Evel and Robbie both gone, questions arise about the future of the Knievel daredevil tradition.
Will Another Knievel Perform Stunts?
As of 2025, no Knievel family members have expressed interest in continuing the stunt performing tradition. Karmen and her sisters have chosen different paths.
If Karmen or her sisters have children, those next-generation Knievels may eventually choose their own relationship with the family legacy.
The Legacy Continues in Different Forms
Even without active stunt performers, the Knievel legacy continues through:
- Documentaries and films about Evel and Robbie
- Merchandise and licensing deals
- Museums and exhibits featuring Knievel memorabilia
- The ongoing influence on extreme sports and daredevil culture
- Books and articles keeping the story alive
Karmen’s Potential Role in Legacy Management
As one of Robbie’s daughters, Karmen may eventually become more involved in managing the Knievel legacy, particularly as decisions need to be made about licensing, brand protection, and how the family story is told. This involvement wouldn’t require her to become a public figure but could happen behind the scenes.
A More Human Legacy
The future of the Knievel name may shift from death-defying stunts to a more complete story that includes the human experiences of family members like Karmen.
This fuller legacy recognizes that being a Knievel means more than jumping motorcycles—it means navigating fame, family expectations, and finding your own path.
Lessons from Karmen Knievel’s Life
Karmen’s life choices offer valuable lessons for anyone struggling with identity, expectations, or pressure.
You Can Honor Your Family Without Becoming Them
Karmen loves and respects her family but chose not to follow their exact path. This demonstrates that you can honor your heritage while still being your own person. You’re not required to become a copy of your parents or grandparents to show respect for them.
Privacy is a Valid Choice
In a world that constantly demands sharing, Karmen shows that privacy is not only acceptable but valuable. You don’t owe the world access to your life, your relationships, or your daily experiences. Keeping things private can protect your mental health and preserve authenticity.
Fame Isn’t the Goal
Karmen had every opportunity to leverage her famous name for wealth and attention. Her choice not to do so demonstrates that fame shouldn’t be the ultimate goal.
True success is measured by personal happiness, meaningful relationships, and living according to your values.
Courage Takes Many Forms
While her father and grandfather showed courage by risking their lives in stunts, Karmen shows courage by living authentically in a world that demands conformity.
The courage to say “no” to expectations, to choose privacy over profit, and to define success on your own terms is equally admirable.
Legacy is About More Than Achievements
The Knievel legacy isn’t just about world records and motorcycle jumps—it’s also about how family members treat each other, the values they uphold, and the choices they make.
Karmen contributes to this legacy through her integrity, her respect for family, and her commitment to authentic living.
Frequently Asked Questions About Karmen Knievel
Who is Karmen Knievel?
Karmen Knievel is the daughter of legendary motorcycle stunt performer Robbie Knievel and granddaughter of the iconic Evel Knievel.
Born in 1979, she is now 45-46 years old and lives a private life in Missoula, Montana with her husband David Prieto. Unlike her famous family members, Karmen has chosen to stay out of the public spotlight.
What does Karmen Knievel do for a living?
Karmen Knievel’s specific career or occupation has not been publicly disclosed. She has been described as living a “traveling gypsy” lifestyle, suggesting she values experiences and flexibility over traditional career paths.
She may work in creative fields, wellness industries, or remote work that allows her nomadic lifestyle, but she has kept these details private.
Is Karmen Knievel married?
Yes, Karmen Knievel is married to David Prieto. The couple reportedly resides in Missoula, Montana. Details about their relationship, including when and how they met, remain private as both prefer to keep their personal lives away from public attention.
Does Karmen Knievel have any children?
Whether Karmen Knievel has children is not publicly known. Given her strong commitment to privacy, if she is a mother, she has successfully kept this information within her family circle, protecting any children from media attention and public scrutiny.
What is Karmen Knievel’s net worth in 2025?
Karmen Knievel’s net worth is estimated to be between $800,000 and $1 million as of 2025. This estimation is based on potential inheritance from her father Robbie Knievel and grandfather Evel Knievel, possible earnings from Knievel brand licensing, and any personal income she generates through her own work.
Why doesn’t Karmen Knievel have social media?
Karmen Knievel has chosen not to maintain any public social media presence as part of her commitment to privacy. She has no verified Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or other social media accounts.
This decision allows her to live authentically without the pressure of public scrutiny and protects her from unwanted attention related to her famous family name.
Did Karmen Knievel ever perform motorcycle stunts like her father and grandfather?
No, Karmen Knievel has never performed motorcycle stunts or followed in the professional footsteps of her father Robbie or grandfather Evel.
She chose a completely different life path focused on privacy and normalcy rather than public performance and daredevil entertainment.
Who are Karmen Knievel’s siblings?
Karmen has two sisters: Krysten Knievel and Maria Collins (formerly Maria Knievel). While Krysten occasionally shares family memories on social media, particularly following their father’s death, both sisters also maintain relatively private lives compared to their famous father and grandfather.
How did Karmen Knievel react to her father Robbie’s death?
When Robbie Knievel passed away on January 13, 2023, after battling pancreatic cancer, Karmen and her family chose to grieve privately.
She made no public statements, gave no interviews, and did not share her grief on social media. This private mourning reflected her values and the family’s preference for handling personal matters away from the public eye.
Where does Karmen Knievel live now?
Karmen Knievel currently lives in Missoula, Montana with her husband David Prieto. Missoula is a city of approximately 75,000 people known for its beautiful natural surroundings, outdoor recreation opportunities, and laid-back Western culture—an ideal location for someone seeking a quiet life away from the spotlight.
Conclusion
In a family defined by spectacular jumps, broken bones, and constant media attention, Karmen Knievel represents something equally powerful—the strength to choose your own path.
While her grandfather Evel and father Robbie showed courage by defying death on motorcycles, Karmen demonstrates courage by living authentically in a world that demands public performance.
Her story reminds us that legacy isn’t just about continuing family traditions or achieving public recognition.
True legacy is about knowing yourself, honoring your values, and having the courage to live accordingly, even when the world expects something different.
Karmen Knievel carries the daredevil DNA of her family, but she channels it differently—through the bravery to be private, to protect her peace, and to measure success by personal fulfillment rather than public applause.
In doing so, she adds a new dimension to the Knievel story and offers a powerful example for anyone struggling with expectations and identity.
The Knievel name will always be associated with motorcycles and death-defying stunts, but thanks to Karmen, it’s also becoming associated with something equally valuable—the courage to be yourself, the strength to say no to fame, and the wisdom to build a life that brings genuine happiness rather than just public recognition.
As we move forward in 2025 and beyond, Karmen Knievel’s quiet legacy will continue to grow, reminding future generations that there are many ways to be brave, many paths to honor family, and many definitions of success.
Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is simply live your own life, on your own terms, with dignity and authenticity.