Arnold Schwarzenegger, a larger-than-life figure in both the world of bodybuilding and Hollywood, has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Born in Austria, Schwarzenegger’s journey from a humble background to becoming a global superstar is nothing short of extraordinary. With his immense physique, charismatic personality, and unwavering determination, he has become an iconic action hero.
But the Terminator star didn’t always enjoy this dominance over the entertainment industry. It’s a well-known fact that the 38th governor of California started his career with bodybuilding. But the transition from bodybuilding to acting was surely not an easy one for Schwarzenegger. The Predator star recalled his first role in the movie, Hercules in New York, where he was not even allowed to speak.
Arnold Schwarzenegger On Not Being Allowed To Speak In His Debut Film
When Arnold Schwarzenegger landed his first film role in Hercules in New York (1969), he was given a surprising instruction by his mentor Joe Weider. Weider felt that there was no one better to play the role of Hercules other than Schwarzenegger, who already had multiple bodybuilding wins at the age of 22. So, he decided to grab the titular role of Schwarzenegger in Hercules in New York. However, Weider also suggested the Terminator star remain quiet and let his impressive physique persuade the makers as he did all the talking.
“‘Arnold, they’re casting Hercules and I just told them that they have to hire you. You’re the big new bodybuilding champion. You’re 22 years old. They should get you. This is the best thing’. Then I went to an interview with them, and they gave me the part. I didn’t even have to read, I didn’t even talk, Joe said ‘Shut up and don’t talk.’ He says ‘I do the talking. You just sit there and keep your chest out and look proud and look strong.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger On Working Hard To Build His Acting Career
Schwarzenegger’s voice was dubbed in his debut film, but shockingly the superstar remained unfazed by this decision. In fact, he considered it a privilege to be a part of the movie, regardless of the limited screen time or absence of his voice.
“No, no. In this case, I was so amazed…So I didn’t care what they did. If they only left me in the movie for three minutes. I was in heaven to just be part of it.”
But all these instances just motivated The Running Man star to improve himself and make his name in the entertainment industry. Determined to improve, Schwarzenegger recognized the importance of honing his acting skills. He also worked to master the English language as he worked on his accent.
“I have to go to acting class, I have to really work on my accent, I have to really learn the language. I was not ready at all.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s journey in Hollywood may have begun with an unconventional role that limited his ability to showcase his acting prowess. Despite being warned to not open his mouth, Schwarzenegger’s unwavering dedication to his dream of becoming a superstar fueled his desire to improve has made him today’s most prominent action star.
Hercules in New York is available for streaming on The Roku Channel.
Source: SiriusXM’s Howard Stern
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