The untold story of Tiny Broadwick, the fearless circus performer known as “The Doll Girl,” who became the first person to make a freefall parachute jump. Never-before-seen photos reveal how she invented the ripcord system—an innovation that saved countless aviators’ lives—yet others stole credit for her work. After joining a Flying Circus at just 13, following a childhood of hardship—married at 12, a mother, and abandoned at 13—Tiny forged a daring path in aviation history. This documentary unearths recently discovered evidence of her groundbreaking achievements and the unbelievable story history nearly forgot.
Tiny Broadwick wasn’t just a daredevil—she was a pioneer. Tiny became the first person to make a freefall parachute jump and invented the ripcord, a system that would save countless aviators’ lives. Yet, history barely remembers her. While male aviators became legends, Tiny was left behind, her contributions overshadowed and uncredited. Through newly uncovered archival footage, a vault of photographs from Tiny’s estate, and gripping firsthand accounts from family members who have never spoken before, Tiny reveals the raw, untold story of a woman who risked everything for the thrill of the fall—only to be forgotten when the world moved on.
Producer, Writer | Sarah Sloan
Producer | Ken Oots