George Clooney’s name often conjures up images of Hollywood glitz, award-winning performances, and his charming persona. But beyond the silver screen, Clooney has also been known for his passion for motorcycles—a lesser-known facet of his life that combines the thrill of speed with the craftsmanship of these machines. His motorcycle adventures, however, haven’t always been a smooth ride as they’ve included a mixture of high-profile incidents and heartfelt revelations about his experiences on two wheels.
While you may be aware of his acting prowess and directorial ventures, the details of his motorcycle escapades are often shrouded in rumors and snippets of interviews. Here are 5 things you may not know.
1. George Clooney’s Accidents
George Clooney has had a notable incident while riding motorcycles, one that could have been life-altering.
Near Fatal Accident
In July 2018, you might remember hearing the news that George Clooney was involved in a significant motorcycle accident in Italy. He collided with a car that turned suddenly into his lane and was thrown over the handlebars of his scooter. Clooney hit the car’s windshield, which led him to believe that he had lost all his teeth, but it turned out to be the shattered glass. Despite the severity of the crash, he fortunately did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. This incident served as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with riding motorcycles, even for experienced riders like Clooney.
2. Switches to Scooters
In response to concerns for his safety, Clooney transitioned to riding a more stable and safer three-wheeled scooter. This change was a significant shift for the actor, who had previously enjoyed the freedom and thrill of motorcycles.
Safety First:
- Family Concerns: After the accident, both his wife and his friend’s wife insisted on him not returning to two-wheelers.
- Alternatives: As a compromise, Clooney opted for a three-wheeled scooter, likely prioritizing safety without giving up riding entirely.
Adaptations:
- Celebrating the shift, Ellen DeGeneres gifted Clooney a custom scooter, which is designed to provide the enjoyment of riding with enhanced stability.
3. George Clooney’s Collections
Clooney’s motorcycle collection is as diverse as his film roles, ranging from classic to modern rides. Among the machines he’s been spotted on, you’ll find:
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Harley-Davidson: The embodiment of American biking culture, Clooney has enjoyed rides on these iconic motorcycles, known for their distinctive sound and style.
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Piaggio MP3 250: Not your average bike, this three-wheeled scooter blends the ease of a scooter with the feel of a motorcycle, reflecting Clooney’s appreciation for unique design.
Clooney’s collection extends beyond these models, as he’s often seen exploring new additions to further cultivate his love for the open road and the sense of freedom that comes with riding.
4. George Clooney’s Charity Work
George Clooney has harnessed the allure of motorcycles to facilitate his charitable efforts. By auctioning motorcycles and related events, he raises substantial funds for causes close to his heart. Specifics around the amounts raised or events are sparse, but it’s clear that Clooney’s status and the exclusive nature of these auctions have a positive impact on the charities he supports.
5. George Clooney On Screen
On Screen Motorcycle Scenes
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“The American” (2010): In this suspense thriller, you see Clooney playing a hitman who maneuvers through the narrow streets of Italy on a motorcycle, demonstrating his character’s skilled and evasive driving.
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“Leatherheads” (2008): Although it’s a football-centered film, there’s a scene where Clooney’s character mounts a classic motorcycle, giving you a glimpse of his versatility and adding to his rugged charm within the period piece.
