Steve Reeves, Mr. America/actor, born 1926

Handsome, muscular Steve Reeves, born January 21, 1926 in Glasgow, Montana, weas a professional bodybuilder and actor, being the number one box office draw in 25 countries in 1960.

He moved with his mother to California when he was ten after his father died in a farming accident.  He discovered an interest in bodybuilding and began training in Oakland, California.  He served in the Philippines during WWII.

After the war, he began competing in bodybuilding and won the titles of Mr. America 1947, Mr. World 1948, and Mr. Universe 1950.  Then he was contacted by an agent about going into acting.  

Reeves mainly appeared in roles that showed off his physique, such as Hercules, gladiators, and a Tarzan-ish role in Kimbar of the Jungle. A shoulder injury during the filming of The Last Days of Pompeii in 1959 ultimately led to his retirement from filmmaking.

Reeves passed away in May 2000 from a blood clot while be treated for lymphoma.

He apparently had some comedic talent as well, as he appeared in the George Burns and Gracie Allen Show:

Happy birthday, bodybuilder and gay activist Bob Paris!

Bob Paris, born December 14, 1959 in Columbus, Indiana, is a championship bodybuilder, a gay activist, writer, and public speaker.  

I first discovered Bob when I was into bodybuilding, and right away, he came out, becoming one of the first, if not THE first, athlete to come out while still actively competing in his sport.  Of course, the damage to his career was significant, losing about 80% of his bookings and endorsements.  

He and his husband at the time Rod Jackson co-authored a book, Straight From the Heart.  I purchased it and got Bob's autograph and my picture with him! 

I'm glad to hear that he is doing well! An inspiration for all of us. 

Happy birthday, Lou Ferrigno!

Actor, bodybuilder and all-around inspiration, Lou Ferrigno was born November 9, 1951 in Brooklyn, New York.  He won his first major title IFBB Mr. America in 1969, and then IFBB Mr. Universe in 1973.  He trained with Arnold Schwarzenegger and came in second in his first Mr. Olympia competition in 1974. 

His other titles include Pro Mr. America-WBBG, Teen 1st, and IFBB Mr. International in 1974.

He appeared as the Incredible Hulk in the television series with Bill Bixby from 1978-1982.  Most recently he has appeared in Star Trek Continues.