Lou Ferrigno is well known for his role as The Hulk. However, his accomplishments are not just restricted to acting. Having won the IFBB Mr. Universe titles for two consecutive years, Lou is one of the best-known faces in bodybuilding. With his incredible physique and strength, he gave tough competition to his competitors.
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When he played the role of The Hulk, fans were impressed by his portrayal. He played the part with such ease that it was indeed praiseworthy. Not only did he earn recognition, but his on-screen character became his career benchmark. How easy was it for Lou to play the part? Back in 2010, the bodybuilder-turned-actor dived into the details.
Lou talked about how he mastered his role on-screen
When Lou was asked about the most challenging part of playing the role of Hulk on the screen, he had a clear answer. He said, “the most challenging aspect of playing the character was to show emotion.” While growing up, Lou had a tough time; he was often ridiculed and criticized. A reserved kid, he thus knew the importance of expressing himself.
He elaborated upon the importance of emotions and added, “because when you are acting, your emotions are everything. So I had to show emotions within makeup through the eyes and teeth because I wanted him to be a wonderful character, not just the typical monster.”
Lou brought an essence to the character of The Hulk. He gave a more human appeal to the monster and gave the role a different perspective and dynamic. Much like on-screen portrayals, Lou, in his real life, also faced multiple hurdles. He overcame all the criticism leveled at him and triumphed as an actor and a bodybuilder.
Lou Ferrigno and his traumatizing days
When Ferrigno first started working out in the 1960s, his buddies frequently mocked him for participating in a subversive activity like bodybuilding. Speaking of the same, he remarked, “I would get ridiculed by my friends; they kept laughing at me. But I didn’t let that affect me.”
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Ferrigno embraced the criticism of his friends and intensified his training as a result. Every time he trained, he felt “good about himself.” As soon as he was recognized for his talent and gained greatness, there was no stopping him. He made his appearance in the documentary “Pumping Iron” and quickly won over fans.
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