Steve Reeves, a Montana-born bodybuilder, was destined for greatness from an early age. As "Healthiest Baby of Valley County" at just six months old, his physique was already drawing attention. After his father's untimely death in a farming accident, Steve's family moved to Oakland, California, where he developed an interest in bodybuilding during high school.
Steve joined the Army in his late teens, where he worked out regularly and quickly developed his impressive physique. Following his Army service, he decided to pursue bodybuilding professionally, winning several titles including "Mr. Pacific Coast," "Mr. Western America," "Mr. America," "Mr. World," and ultimately, "Mr. Universe" in 1950.
With his newfound fame, Steve decided to pursue acting in New York, eventually returning to California and Hollywood. Although he was considered for the lead role in Cecil B. DeMille's "Samson and Delilah," he refused due to the requirement to lose 15 pounds, a decision that ultimately led to the role going to Victor Mature.
Steve did manage to secure small roles in several films and TV shows, but they were mostly background or walk-on parts. He was considered a bodybuilder first and an actor second, with fans wanting to see him take off his shirt.
Steve's fortunes changed when Italian film director Pietro Francisci saw him in the feature film "Athena" and persuaded him to star in "Hercules" (1958). Although critics panned the film, the public went crazy for Steve's heroic performance, and he became an overnight sensation. He went on to star in several more films, including sequels and other sword-and-sandal epics.
Steve was an able horseman and performed many of his own stunts. He paved the way for other bodybuilders to seek fame and fortune in Italy, and his popularity was unmatched. However, a shoulder injury forced his retirement, and he spent the remainder of his life promoting steroid-free bodybuilding and living on a ranch, breeding horses.
Steve passed away on May 1, 2000, at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy as a bodybuilding champion and a Hollywood icon. His impact on the bodybuilding and acting communities can still be seen today, with bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno crediting Steve for their own success.
