Tommy Ivo: The Untold Story Of A Drag Racing Legend

Alberto Hane 11 May 2025

Ever heard of someone who could charm audiences on screen and then leave them in the dust on the drag strip? There's only one 'TV' Tommy Ivo, a true original who conquered both Hollywood and the racing world.

Tommy Ivo, a name synonymous with speed, showmanship, and a touch of Hollywood glamour, carved a unique path in the annals of American culture. Born on April 18, 1936, Ivo, often hailed as "TV" Tommy or "Instant Ivo," wasn't just a drag racer; he was a multifaceted entertainer who seamlessly blended acting with his passion for roaring engines and burning rubber. His story is a testament to ambition, talent, and a relentless drive to excel, making him a true icon of the 1960s racing community and beyond. From the silver screen to the scorching asphalt, Ivo's journey is a fascinating exploration of a life lived in the fast lane, both literally and figuratively. His influence extends far beyond the checkered flag, leaving an indelible mark on the sport of drag racing and popular culture alike.

Tommy Ivo Bio/Personal Information
Full Name	Tommy Ivo
Also Known As	TV Tommy, Instant Ivo
Date of Birth	April 18, 1936
Place of Residence	Los Angeles Suburb (since 1948)
Career Information
Professions	Actor, Drag Racer
Acting Career Start	Early 1940s
Notable Acting Roles	Cousin Arne in I Remember Mama (1948), Joey in Prejudice (1949), William Button in Plymouth Adventure
Racing Era	Active in the 1960s Racing Community
Racing Achievements	Beat Don Garlits as a Top Fueler, First to Record a Seven-Second Run, 109 Funny Car Starts in 1976 Alone
Reference: NHRA Official Website

Ivo's story begins not on the racetrack, but under the bright lights of Hollywood. His career in entertainment commenced in the early 1940s, showcasing a natural talent that would lead him to roles in notable productions. He charmed audiences as Cousin Arne in the heartwarming "I Remember Mama" (1948), a role that endeared him to families across the nation. His portrayal of Joey in "Prejudice" (1949) showcased his ability to tackle complex and thought-provoking themes, while his appearance as William Button in "Plymouth Adventure" further solidified his presence in the golden age of cinema. Imagine a child actor, sharing the stage with legends like Boris Karloff (the iconic Frankenstein) and Margaret Hamilton (the unforgettable Wicked Witch of the West); that was Tommy Ivo's reality. He was a performer from the start, reportedly able to sing and tap dance at the tender age of three. A missing pair of front teeth at age seven, rather than hindering his career, became his "big break," adding a touch of youthful charm to his already burgeoning talent. At the incredibly young age of 12, he bought a house, a testament to his early success and entrepreneurial spirit. This unusual childhood, steeped in the world of entertainment, might seem worlds away from the roar of the drag strip, but it laid the foundation for the charismatic persona that would later captivate racing fans worldwide.

But Ivo wasn't content with just one stage. The allure of speed and the thrill of competition beckoned, leading him to the burgeoning world of drag racing. His transition from actor to racer was seamless, fueled by the same passion and dedication that defined his early career. He quickly became a force to be reckoned with, not only for his driving skills but also for his innate ability to entertain the crowds. With Don Prudhomme by his side as a young driver and help, Ivo not only cemented his own name in the sport but also helped transform drag racing into a spectacle that drew massive audiences. His rivalry with the legendary Don Garlits was one for the ages, a clash of titans that pushed the boundaries of the sport. Ivo's victory over Garlits and his achievement as the first to record a seven-second run solidified his status as a top fueler and a pioneer in the world of drag racing. Even as the years passed, Ivo remained a constant presence, proving his enduring passion for the sport. In 1976 alone, he participated in an astounding 109 funny car starts, a testament to his unwavering commitment and competitive spirit.

One of the defining moments in Ivo's career was his participation in the 1964 England racing exhibit. This event, where he traveled with the U.S. drag racing team (comprising ten cars from five classes), was pivotal in introducing the thrill of drag racing to a European audience unfamiliar with the sport's raw power and excitement. It was more than just a race; it was a cultural exchange, a demonstration of American ingenuity and automotive prowess. Ivo's presence in England was undoubtedly one of the high points of his career, showcasing his talent on an international stage and solidifying his reputation as a global ambassador for drag racing. He was part of an American lineup that included the AA fuelers of Don Garlits, the blown gas dragsters of Bob Keith (Dos Palmos) and Tony Nancy with the revolutionary rear-engined 8-litre Plymouth rail 'The Wedge', as well as his '22 Junior' Chevy rail, and the monstrous Willys coupes of K. Pittman (7.5 litre blown Chrysler) and 'Ohio'.

Tommy Ivo's influence extended beyond his on-track accomplishments. He possessed a keen eye for design and a passion for innovation, which led him to create some of the most iconic and memorable vehicles in drag racing history. His journey into car building began with an admiration for Norm Grabowski's 1922 Ford Model T bucket. Inspired by Grabowski's creation, Ivo sought to build his own version. When Grabowski refused to share measurements, Ivo took matters into his own hands, famously sneaking into Grabowski's garage to obtain the necessary dimensions. This act of determination and resourcefulness exemplifies Ivo's character and his unwavering pursuit of his goals. The result was a stunning Model T that reflected Ivo's personal style and innovative spirit. Just as Tommy Ivo recalled a race with Jack McClure in 1964 at Tampa Drag Strip, where Ivo made single runs on a paid appearance, as did Jack McClure with the rocket-powered go-kart. It's those memorable moments that are captured throughout Tommy's career.

The legacy of "TV" Tommy Ivo is multifaceted, encompassing his achievements as an actor, his pioneering contributions to drag racing, and his undeniable charisma. He represents a unique intersection of entertainment and motorsports, a testament to the power of talent and determination. Ivo's ability to captivate audiences both on and off the track cemented his status as a true icon. As "TV" Tommy Ivo's recollection of racing Jack McClure what really happened at Tampa Drag Strip all those many years ago in 1964, was, that i was making single runs on a paid in appearance, as was Jack McClure doing with the rocket powered go kart.

Even the meticulous details of model car kits bear testament to his enduring impact. For example, "The Ivo kits headers are too thin and required some fiddley building so I went to the spare parts tray and came up with a suitable set of headers." Further, "The only other serious adjustment was with the front torsion bars. The kit comes with twin rods, but the Ivo car only had single torsion bars."

Tommy Ivo has lived in the same peaceful Los Angeles suburb since 1948. Its a tranquil yet unassuming home, considering Ivos full and frantic life.

Tommy Ivo Official Website

Student Success Stories

Tommy Ivo: The Untold Story Of A Drag Racing Legend

Detail Author:

Socials

facebook:

linkedin:

instagram: