Decades after going toe-to-toe with Sylvester Stallone in Rocky IV, Dolph Lundgren is still delivering thrills across action, drama, and comedy. The former chemical engineering student, who became an ’80s icon as Soviet bruiser Ivan Drago, continues defying expectations through his multifaceted career.
Dolph Lundgren’s intimidating physique and icy stare propelled him to fame as Soviet wrecking ball Ivan Drago, battling Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa in an all-time cinematic showdown. But behind the brawn lies an insightful performer with a keen intellect, as evidenced by the variety of roles Lundgren continues to take on. Even after becoming an ‘80s action icon, Lundgren remains determined not to be pigeonholed.
From Brainy Student to Brawny Star
Long before becoming a boxing cinema legend, Dolph Lundgren attended Washington State and Clemson universities on academic scholarships, earning a chemical engineering degree. After being spotted by Grace Jones, Lundgren pivoted into movies, leveraging his hulking physique and brooding presence.
But Lundgren revealed that acting was initially just a detour from his studies. He shared in an interview with CBR,
“I feel comfortable doing other things in life, not just as an actor. I was a chemical engineer, a musician, and I was a martial artist.”
After finding fame playing Drago and other hard-edged action heroes, Lundgren actively pursued more variety in his roles. He leveraged his intellect and comedy chops alongside his brawn in films like Universal Soldier and Masters of the Universe.
Dolph Lundgren on Showcasing His Comedic Side
While often tapped for action-oriented fare, Lundgren enjoys subverting expectations by highlighting his affable, light-hearted side. He revealed an unexpected comedic flair in buddy comedy gem The Nice Guys and other projects.
Dolph Lundgren shared in an interview with CBR,
“I always try to find that and, if it’s in the script, that makes it easier. I had fun with the character being a bit of a drunk. I thought that was something that I could use to prepare for every scene. It kind of frees you up because you get relaxed, funny and goofy. The rules disappear, and you can just do whatever comes to you.”
Read more: “F**k this movie”: Dolph Lundgren Wanted to Knock Sylvester Stallone’s Teeth Out in $274M Project
From Rocky to Expendables and Beyond
Now 65, Lundgren’s current slate proves his career endures through versatility. He recently joined the Expendables franchise while poking fun at his persona in the Aquaman franchise.
While grateful for his early notoriety, Lundgren finds greater fulfillment in mixing up his performances today. Doing different stuff is more satisfying, Lundgren stated.
As Ivan Drago, Dolph Lundgren made cinematic history battling Rocky Balboa. But beneath the biceps lies a thoughtful performer seeking to transcend one-note tough guy roles. Thanks to a bit of brain and a lot of brawn, Lundgren continues defying expectations decades into his unlikely journey from academic scholar to action icon.
With an intellectual curiosity equal to his commanding screen presence, Lundgren repeatedly showcases an impressive range across genres and decades. As Lundgren himself noted, relying solely on brute force leads to a short shelf-life in Hollywood. But with nuance and versatility, even legendary movie villains can enjoy an enduring, multifaceted career.
Source: CBR
