How to get a Hive Account
Born: June 2, 1904 - Died: January 20, 1984
Johnny Weissmuller, known for his iconic role as Tarzan in the film "Tarzan the Ape Man," was born as Peter Johann Weißmüller in Freidorf, Romania, which was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the time. Despite later claiming to have been born in Windber, Pennsylvania, Weissmuller grew up in Romania. He was the son of Petrus Weissmuller, a miner, and Elisabeth Kersch, both of whom were part of the Banat Swabian ethnic German population. Weissmuller's remarkable athletic abilities led him to become an undefeated swimming champion, winning five Olympic gold medals and numerous world and national titles. His success in the water paved the way for his transition to the entertainment industry, where he made a significant impact as one of Hollywood's most beloved Tarzan actors.
Early Life and Career
Johnny Weissmuller's childhood and upbringing in Romania shaped his journey to becoming a legendary figure in the entertainment industry. Weissmuller's athletic prowess in swimming played a crucial role in launching his career. He gained international recognition as an undefeated swimming champion, winning five Olympic gold medals along with numerous world and national titles.
Weissmuller made his professional acting debut in the film industry, starring in the movie "Glorifying the American Girl" in 1929. However, it was his role as Tarzan in the film "Tarzan the Ape Man" in 1932 that catapulted him to stardom. The success of the film established him as the definitive Tarzan, and he went on to portray the iconic character in multiple sequels. His physicality, charm, and on-screen presence endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Throughout his career, Weissmuller received various accolades for his performances, and garnered recognition for his portrayal of Tarzan. His impact on Hollywood and the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. He carved a niche for himself as one of the most recognizable figures in Hollywood's Golden Age, known for his muscular physique and distinctive Tarzan yell.
In his personal life, Weissmuller was married to Maria Bauman from 1963 until his death in 1984. He had previously divorced his first wife at the studio's insistence. The actor's talents extended beyond acting swimming; he also worked as a model, particularly for underwear and swimsuits.
Weissmuller retired from acting to focus on running a private business in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He lived a relatively low-key life following his retirement from the entertainment industry.
Overall, Johnny Weissmuller's contributions to Hollywood and the entertainment industry are undeniable. His portrayal of Tarzan remains iconic to this day, and he is regarded as one of the most beloved actors of his time. His athletic achievements and groundbreaking success in the water, paired with his charismatic performances on screen, solidify his status as an enduring legend in the world of entertainment.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 | Won Ton Ton: The Dog Who Saved Hollywood | Stagehand 2 |
| 1974 | The Great Masquerade | Sepy Debronvi |
| 1970 | The Phynx | Johnny Weissmuller |
| 1955–1956 | Jungle Jim (TV Series) | Jungle Jim |
| 1955 | Devil Goddess | Johnny Weissmuller |
| 1955 | Jungle Moon Men | Johnny Weissmuller |
| 1954 | Cannibal Attack | Johnny Weissmuller |
| 1954 | Jungle Man-Eaters | Jungle Jim |
| 1953 | Killer Ape | Jungle Jim |
| 1953 | Valley of Head Hunters | Jungle Jim |
| 1953 | Savage Mutiny | Jungle Jim |
| 1952 | Voodoo Tiger | Jungle Jim |
| 1952 | Jungle Jim in the Forbidden Land | Jungle Jim |
| 1951 | Jungle Manhunt | Jungle Jim |
| 1951 | Fury of the Congo | Jungle Jim |
| 1950 | Pygmy Island | Jungle Jim |
| 1950 | Captive Girl | Jungle Jim |
| 1950 | Mark of the Gorilla | Jungle Jim |
| 1949 | The Lost Tribe | Jungle Jim |
| 1948 | Jungle Jim | Jungle Jim |
| 1948 | Tarzan and the Mermaids | Tarzan |
| 1947 | Tarzan and the Huntress | Tarzan |
| 1946 | Swamp Fire | Johnny Duval |
| 1946 | Tarzan and the Leopard Woman | Tarzan |
| 1945 | Tarzan and the Amazons | Tarzan |
| 1943 | Tarzan's Desert Mystery | Tarzan |
| 1943 | Stage Door Canteen | Johnny Weissmuller |
| 1943 | Tarzan Triumphs | Tarzan |
| 1942 | Tarzan's New York Adventure | Tarzan |
| 1941 | Tarzan's Secret Treasure | Tarzan |
| 1940 | Rodeo Dough (Short) | Johnny Weissmuller |
| 1939 | Tarzan Finds a Son! | Tarzan |
| 1936 | Tarzan Escapes | Tarzan |
| 1934 | Tarzan and His Mate | Tarzan |
| 1932 | Tarzan the Ape Man | Tarzan |
| 1931 | The Big Splash (Short) | Unknown |
| 1929 | Glorifying the American Girl | Adonis - Segment 'Loveland' (uncredited) |
General:
Page by @kendewitt
Posted Using InLeo Alpha