Who Really Drove the Mustang in Bullitt?

The infamous question 'Who drove the Bullitt Mustang?' is one that has been the subject of much speculation and discussion, especially among car enthusiasts and fans of the classic movie Bullitt. The answer, it turns out, is not as straightforward as one might think, and it involves a mix of actors, stunt drivers, and professional race drivers, all contributing to the iconic scenes that have become an integral part of cinematic history.

First, it's important to understand that this question wasn't a troll's creation but was generated by Quora's new 'Stupid Question Generator' project, intended to tackle interesting but seemingly simple questions. In the context of the Bullitt film, the question highlights a key aspect of the movie's production and its legacy in car culture and Hollywood.

Steve McQueen's Role

The answer to who drove the Mustang in the film has been widely known and celebrated, especially for the star himself, Steve McQueen. Steve McQueen, the legendary actor, was not only the face of the car but also the driving force behind many of the scenes in Bullitt. He was a professional race driver and known for his precise and skilled driving, making him an excellent choice for the role.

McQueen was the real protagonist in Bullitt and became synonymous with the Mustang. He participated in numerous close-up driving scenes, showcasing his expertise and charisma on the road. His physical presence in the car added an extra layer of intensity to the chase scenes and made the movie a visual spectacle.

Stunt Drivers and Collaborations

While Steve McQueen was undoubtedly the star driver, the creation of the movie's action scenes involved collaboration with some of Hollywood's most skilled professionals. Bud Ekins, for example, was a renowned stunt driver and stunt coordinator who doubled for McQueen in some of the most dangerous scenes. These included the iconic motorbike-over-barbed-wire jump scene in the 1963 film The Great Escape.

Another key player in the production was Carey Loftin, a legendary stunt coordinator known for his work in creating some of the most memorable car stunts of the 60s and 70s. Loftin, who also appeared in the role of the mysterious truck driver in Duel, was responsible for the motorcycle seen in the chase sequence, which famously crashed during filming.

Practicing and Preparation

The driving scenes in Bullitt were not just about the final product but required extensive preparation and practice. Bill Hickman, a well-known Hollywood stuntman, was known to practice running close at high speed at a local airport. This preparation ensured that the actors and stunt drivers were ready for the real thing when filming began.

McQueen and Hickman would work together to choreograph the chase scenes, with McQueen handling many of the more challenging but less spectacular parts. Hickman, on the other hand, was responsible for driving more dangerous and complex scenes, further adding to the authenticity and intensity of the production.

Conclusion

The story behind the Bullitt Mustang in Bullitt is a reminder of the collaboration and skill involved in creating classic films. Steve McQueen may have been the face of the car and the driving force behind many of the scenes, but the film's action was made possible by the contributions of several talented professionals, including stunt drivers Bud Ekins and Carey Loftin, and the undeniable presence of McQueen himself.

Whether you're a car enthusiast or just a fan of classic Hollywood, the story of the Bullitt Mustang continues to captivate audiences, highlighting the blend of performance and craftsmanship that defines the best of cinema.