Herman Brix, a renowned shot-putter, shone brightly in the 1928 Olympics, showcasing his impressive athletic prowess. However, fate had other plans for him, as a shoulder injury forced him to relinquish the lead in MGM's Tarzan the Ape Man (1932). This unforeseen twist led to a contractual agreement with Ashton Dearholt, who was producing The New Adventures of Tarzan (1935),a serial that would go on to become the only Tarzan film between the silents and the 1960s to accurately portray the character.
In this serial, Brix brought a sophisticated, educated English nobleman to life, who had a profound affinity for the jungle and could converse directly with animals in their own language. Unfortunately, this innovative approach to the Tarzan character cemented his typecasting, relegating him to starring roles in other serials, character films, and even bit parts in poverty row features and two-reeler comedies.
After starring in the Republic Pictures serial Hawk of the Wilderness (1938) as the Tarzan-like Kioga, Brix took a hiatus from films for a few years, during which time he honed his acting skills and changed his name to Bruce Bennett. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, as he went on to make many movies, earning recognition as a leading man in numerous Warner Bros. productions.
In 1960, Brix retired from acting and transitioned into the business world, assuming the role of sales manager for a major vending machine company. Although he made occasional TV guest appearances, he remained reclusive, eschewing interviews and public appearances. However, in the 1970s, he did make an exception, attending a Burroughs-oriented convention where he shared some of his experiences during the making of his Tarzan serial.
Decades later, in 2001, Brix agreed to be interviewed by Mike Chapman for a slender biography and participated in book signings at local bookstores, enjoying a "rediscovery" by the general public in the few years leading up to his passing.
