CAR CULTURE Today's Google Doodle Celebrates Racing Driver and Movie Stuntwoman Kitty O'Neil

Today's Google Doodle celebrates the life of Kitty O'Neil, a pioneering racing driver, stuntwoman, and member of the stunt industry's exclusive "Hell Drivers" team. O'Neil broke barriers in the male-dominated world of racing and stunt work, setting numerous land speed records and performing stunts in blockbuster films.

Born in Corpus Christi, Texas in 1946, O'Neil was struck by a bout of meningitis as a child that left her deaf. Despite this challenge, she was determined to follow her passion for speed and soon found success as a drag racer, earning the nickname "the fastest woman in the world" after setting a women's land speed record of 512 mph in a rocket-powered vehicle in 1976.

O'Neil's talents as a driver soon caught the attention of the film industry, and she began working as a stunt driver and performer in movies and television shows. Some of her most memorable stunts include driving a rocket-powered vehicle through a wall of fire in the movie "The Blues Brothers" and performing as Lynda Carter's stunt double on the television show "Wonder Woman."

Throughout her career, O'Neil faced discrimination and skepticism from male colleagues who doubted her abilities as a driver and stuntwoman. However, she refused to let their prejudices hold her back and continued to push boundaries in the industry.

In addition to her work as a racer and stunt performer, O'Neil was also an advocate for people with disabilities, using her platform to raise awareness and support for those facing similar challenges.

Kitty O'Neil's legacy as a trailblazer in the world of racing and stunt work continues to inspire generations of women and people with disabilities to follow their passions and break down barriers. Today's Google Doodle serves as a reminder of her remarkable achievements and the enduring impact of her contributions to car culture and the entertainment industry.