Peter, a talented athlete from Iceland, embarked on a remarkable journey that would take him from the track to the big screen. Born and raised in Iceland, Peter began running track at a young age, showcasing his exceptional skills and earning a spot on the Icelandic National Team for the decathlon. He held multiple national records, solidifying his reputation as a top-notch athlete.
As he competed in Europe, Peter met a runner from the United States, who was attending and competing for the University of Southern California (USC). The two athletes struck up a conversation, and the USC runner asked Peter if he would ever consider running for USC. Peter, intrigued by the opportunity, eventually began attending USC on a full scholarship.
Leaving his family, including his three children, Lisa, Petur Jr., and Kristine, behind in Iceland, Peter made the bold move to the United States. His decision would lead him to a life-changing experience that would alter the course of his career.
While attending USC, Peter found himself in the right place at the right time, as a movie was being cast for the film "Journey to the Center of the Earth." The producer was struggling to find the perfect candidate to play the role of Hans, a tall, strong Icelandic native. A colleague of the producer's son, who was also a track athlete at USC, suggested Peter for the part. The colleague's son had been impressed by Peter's athletic prowess and thought he would be an ideal fit for the role.
An audition was arranged, and Peter soon found himself trying out for the part. His exceptional physical appearance and athletic build made him an instant hit with the producer, and he was immediately cast in the role of Hans.
The experience of making the film was a whirlwind, with Peter soon finding himself in the midst of a hectic filming schedule. However, after the movie was completed, Peter realized that he had lost his sense of privacy and did not want to live a life in the public eye. He turned down a long-term acting contract, opting instead to focus on his athletic career.
Peter's next major endeavor was competing in the 1960 Rome Olympics for Iceland in the 110-Meter Hurdles. After the Olympics, he married Marie George, a Southern California native of Danish descent, and the couple had two more sons, Brian and Stephen.
Both Brian and Stephen would go on to become licensed physicians in Southern California, and they would often speak proudly of their father's remarkable journey from track athlete to movie star. Peter's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and the ability to adapt to new challenges.
