Eddie the Eagle is taking flight again.
The most unlikely Olympic ski jumping hero is now the subject of an upcoming film, Eddie the Eagle (in theaters Feb. 26), starring Hugh Jackman and Taron Egerton.
The underdog tale is based on Michael Edwards’ incredible leap to universal fame as “Eddie the Eagle,” the plasterer who became Britain’s first Olympic ski jumper. The beloved loser with the signature thick glasses finished last in the 70-meter and 90-meter jumps at the 1988 Calgary Olympics, but captured hearts around the world.
Taron Egerton makes mark as ‘Kingsman’ newcomer.
“Eddie the Eagle is a folk hero,” says Jackman, 47, who recalls watching Edwards’ efforts on TV in his native Australia. “He’s British, but Eddie embodies that quintessential have-a-go quality that Aussies love. He really just went for it as the whole world watched.”
Directed by Dexter Fletcher, Eagle follows Edwards’ improbable path to the Games – dealing with everything from novice skills in the dangerous sport to secondhand equipment that included a helmet with string chin strap.
Continue reading on USA Today.