Franco Columbu

Born:August 7, 1941

Place of Birth:Ollolai, Nuoro, Italia

Died:August 30, 2019

Known For:Acting

Biography

Franco Columbu, the legendary Italian bodybuilder, actor, and author, was a force to be reckoned with despite his modest height of 5 feet 5 inches. His incredible physique and dedication to the sport of bodybuilding led him to claim the prestigious title of Mr. Olympia not once, but twice, in 1976 and 1981. It was on the bodybuilding stage that he showcased his immense strength and sculpted muscles, earning him a well-deserved place in the annals of fitness history.

During a fateful competition in Munich in 1965, Columbu crossed paths with another rising star in the bodybuilding world, Arnold Schwarzenegger. The two men quickly formed a deep bond that would withstand the test of time, with Schwarzenegger eventually bringing Columbu to the United States to join him. Their enduring friendship spanned over five decades and left an indelible mark on both their lives and careers, solidifying them as one of the most iconic duos in the world of bodybuilding.

Transitioning from the world of bodybuilding to the silver screen, Columbu ventured into acting, landing various minor roles in movies alongside his close friend Schwarzenegger. His on-screen presence and undeniable charisma captivated audiences, showcasing his versatility as a performer beyond the confines of the bodybuilding stage. Despite his success in Hollywood, Columbu remained grounded in his roots, often returning to his beloved hometown of Sardinia, Italy, for moments of respite and relaxation.

Throughout his time in the United States, Columbu established a strong presence in the entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema with his memorable performances. His collaborations with Schwarzenegger in several motion pictures further solidified his status as a respected actor and beloved figure in the film industry. Despite his international acclaim and success, Columbu's heart remained tied to his homeland, where he ultimately bid farewell to the world at the age of 78.

Franco Columbu's legacy extends far beyond his achievements in bodybuilding and acting; he was also a published author, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with audiences around the world. His dedication to his craft, unwavering work ethic, and unwavering friendship with Schwarzenegger serve as a testament to his remarkable character and enduring impact on those around him. As fans and admirers continue to celebrate his contributions to the worlds of fitness and film, Franco Columbu's spirit lives on, inspiring generations to pursue their passions with relentless determination and boundless enthusiasm.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Terminator

Future Terminator

1984

In the post-apocalyptic future, reigning tyrannical supercomputers teleport a cyborg assassin known as the "Terminator" back to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor, whose unborn son is destined to lead insurgents against 21st century mechanical hegemony. Meanwhile, the human-resistance movement dispatches a lone warrior to safeguard Sarah. Can he stop the virtually indestructible killing machine?

Predator

Medic (uncredited)

1987

A team of elite commandos on a secret mission in a Central American jungle come to find themselves hunted by an extraterrestrial warrior.

Conan the Barbarian

Pictish Scout

1982

A horde of rampaging warriors massacre the parents of young Conan and enslave the young child for years on The Wheel of Pain. As the sole survivor of the childhood massacre, Conan is released from slavery and taught the ancient arts of fighting. Transforming himself into a killing machine, Conan travels into the wilderness to seek vengeance on Thulsa Doom, the man responsible for killing his family. In the wilderness, Conan takes up with the thieves Valeria and Subotai. The group comes upon King Osric, who wants the trio of warriors to help rescue his daughter who has joined Doom in the hills.

The Running Man

911 Security Officer #2

1987

By 2017, the global economy has collapsed and U.S. society has become a totalitarian police state, censoring all cultural activity. The government pacifies the populace by broadcasting a number of game shows in which convicted criminals fight for their lives, including the gladiator-style The Running Man, hosted by the ruthless Damon Killian, where “runners” attempt to evade “stalkers” and certain death for a chance to be pardoned and set free.

Arnold & Sly: Rivals, Friends, Icons

Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

2024

TMZ exclusively sits down with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone as they discuss for the first time how their once-fierce rivalry led to two Hollywood icons forever being friends and brothers in arms.

Production

Eraser

Stunts

1996

U.S. Marshall John Kruger erases the identities of people enrolled in the Witness Protection Program. His current assignment is to protect Lee Cullen, who's uncovered evidence that the weapons manufacturer she works for has been selling to terrorist groups. When Kruger discovers that there's a corrupt agent within the program, he must guard his own life while trying to protect Lee's.

End of Days

Utility Stunts

1999

On 28 December 1999, the citizens of New York City are getting ready for the turn of the millennium. However, Satan decides to crash the party by coming to the city and searching for his chosen bride — a 20-year-old woman named Christine York. The world will end, and the only hope lies within an atheist named Jericho Cane.