“It’s Like Eating Lead”: Lou Ferrigno Recalled the Gatherings With His Huge Family Always Resulting in ‘Stomach Ache’ in 2019

Retired bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno is famous for his remarkable portrayal of Hulk in the film, The Incredible Hulk. The bodybuilder also won the IFBB Mr. America in 1969 and IFBB Mr. Universe in 1973. Being a bodybuilder and actor, Lou took great care of his physique with utter discipline. However, there was a time in his childhood when he was fed a large amount of food, leading to a stomach ache.

After winning the IFBB Mr.Universe in 1973, Lou participated in Mr.Olympia within a year. He ranked second in his first participation in 1974. Moreover, Lou came third in the following year. Lou tried to defeat his idol, Arnold Schwarzenegger in his second attempt. The moment became a highlight of his career and the subject of the docu-drama Pumping Iron.

Lou Ferrigno recalled his childhood days.

During his childhood, Lou had a chronic hearing problem. Children bullied him for his imperfections, making him feel inferior. The former bodybuilding champ read comic books on Hulk and Superman to gain strength and courage. He had a very strict Italian upbringing as his father was a lieutenant in the NYPD.

Moreover, Lou had young siblings and cousins. All of them would enjoy staying with their large extended family. They would have a block party on Sundays where Lou’s uncle would organize a barbeque session. The gatherings involved a huge amount of food, with grandparents forcing their grandchildren to eat more, thinking they are not eating enough.

In an interview with Wizard World Comic Convention in 2019, Lou recalled how excessive eating would result in stomach aches.

Read More: The Incredible Hulk Lou Ferrigno Was “Ridiculed” by Friends for Pursuing a Shadow Sport Like Bodybuilding in the 60s

He stated, “My grandparents came from Amalfi, Italy, and I remember every time, maybe every two months, I’d be invited to eat dinner with them; they cooked the best meatballs.”

He continued, “You know how after you eat your Italian food on Sunday, they have their chestnuts, and then you take a nap, and then you have pound cake with the coffee. Every Sunday morning, they bring the cannoli, and then you get a stomachache because it’s like eating lead.”

Lou enjoyed spending time with his extended family no matter the stomach ache.

 Ferrigno is also a deputy sheriff.

Being a lieutenant’s son, Lou had an interest in law enforcement. In 2007, he became the deputy sheriff in several states after taking training at the Level I Law Enforcement Academy.

Officially, he had duty in Los Angeles County and San Luis Obispo County but was deputized in 20 states. Lou’s journey has been great, playing multiple roles at different stages.

Watch This Story: 6’5 Tall Beast Lou Ferrigno Over Towered 7 Time Mr Olympia Winner Arnold Schwarzenegger in These Iconic Images

What is your take on Lou’s journey of becoming a successful bodybuilder? Share your thoughts in the comment section.