Saturday, March 29, 2008

Schwarzenegger, Arnold

Schwarzenegger, Arnold (1947- ), Austrian-born bodybuilder, who became an American motion-picture star. Schwarzenegger was born in Graz. As a bodybuilder he won the Mr. Universe title three times and the Mr. Olympia title seven times. Schwarzenegger showed considerable charm in a supporting role as a bodybuilder in Stay Hungry (1976) and again in his appearance in the documentary Pumping Iron (1977). The sword-and-sorcery movies Conan the Barbarian (1982) and Conan the Destroyer (1984), each of which grossed more than $100 million worldwide, established Schwarzenegger as a major box-office attraction. Schwarzenegger then starred in the science fiction film The Terminator (1984), developing what would become a prominent position in the genre of futuristic action films.

Schwarzenegger has continued to specialize in action/adventure productions, including Predator (1987), Total Recall (1990), Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), Last Action Hero (1993), and True Lies (1994). In addition to action films, Schwarzenegger has starred in the comedies Twins (1988) and Kindergarten Cop (1990). He served as chairman of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports from 1990 to 1994. He has also enjoyed financial success in real estate, marketing, and restaurant ownership.