Arnold Schwarzenegger, renowned for his remarkable journey from bodybuilder to Hollywood superstar to Governor of California, has recently shared some extraordinary anecdotes in his new book, Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life. Despite the glamour and fame associated with his career, Schwarzenegger’s stories shed light on the often overlooked challenges and sacrifices that come with being an action movie star.
One of the intriguing incidents Schwarzenegger recounts is the time he had to bite into a real, dead vulture during the filming of Conan the Barbarian. As part of a scene where his character is tied to a tree, Schwarzenegger had to repeat this unsettling act multiple times. The actor reveals that he had to wash his mouth out with alcohol after each take, emphasizing the discomfort and dedication required to bring a scene to life.
However, biting a vulture was not the only hardship Schwarzenegger endured during his career. On one of the first days of filming Conan the Barbarian, he suffered a severe back injury that demanded forty stitches. The lack of suitable stunt doubles at the time pushed Schwarzenegger to perform his own stunts, forcing him to endure physical pain and exhaustion. The sheer brutality of the role left him crawling until his knees and elbows bled, being attacked by dogs, and biting into a real dead vulture. Thankfully, as weightlifting became popular, muscular stunt doubles eventually became available, easing the physical demands on Schwarzenegger.
Another incident that stands out in Schwarzenegger’s career is a harrowingly close call while filming a swimming scene for the movie The 6th Day. What was supposed to be a simple scene turned into a life-threatening experience as the actor found himself disoriented and low on air underwater. A misplaced cover on the pool resulted in Schwarzenegger struggling to find his way back to the exit. The actor remained remarkably composed despite the dire circumstances, emphasizing the importance of discipline and calmness under pressure.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s tales offer a unique perspective on the challenges faced by action movie stars. His willingness to push his physical limits and perform demanding stunts without proper doubles speaks to his determination and dedication to his craft. Through his experiences, we glimpse the perseverance required to succeed in a highly competitive industry.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Schwarzenegger’s stories remind us of the sacrifices and risks that come with pursuing a career in the spotlight. They highlight the indomitable spirit of an individual who conquered numerous obstacles to achieve unparalleled success. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the rewards that await those who are willing to go above and beyond in pursuit of their dreams.