As superhero movies dominate the box office, Hollywood stars are under more pressure than ever to achieve god-like physiques, fueling speculation about widespread steroid use in the industry. While many actors claim they achieve their transformations through rigorous workouts and strict diets, experts argue that steroid use is likely more common than Hollywood admits.
The trend towards chiseled physiques in superhero films took off in the 1980s with stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, who openly admitted to using steroids during their bodybuilding and action movie careers. Stallone, for example, has spoken about using testosterone to maintain his body for roles like Rambo well into his 60s, arguing that it was essential for his sense of well-being.
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Schwarzenegger, meanwhile, built his Hollywood career on his massive, steroid-enhanced body.
In today’s superhero-driven market, this obsession with physical perfection has only intensified. Actors like Chris Hemsworth, who portrays Thor, and Hugh Jackman, known for his role as Wolverine, have repeatedly faced speculation over whether they used performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Hemsworth's rapid bulking for Thor: Love and Thunder led to rumors, which his trainers have denied, but experts are skeptical, noting the unrealistic timelines these transformations often require.
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Even actors who initially avoided such measures have turned to supplements. Alan Ritchson, star of Reacher, admitted to using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) after enduring the physical toll of his action-heavy roles. He highlighted how crucial it was for his recovery and long-term health.
This candid admission reflects a growing trend where actors are more open about the toll these extreme body standards take on their health.
Despite the clear pressure to conform to a superhero standard, Hollywood continues to downplay steroid use, maintaining a narrative that these physiques are achievable through "hard work" alone. However, this ideal sets unrealistic expectations for the general public, particularly men who are bombarded with images of perfectly sculpted, muscular bodies. Critics argue that this portrayal of masculinity leads to body dysmorphia and an unhealthy obsession with extreme fitness.
The secrecy surrounding steroid use is exacerbated by the stigma attached to it. PEDs are often associated with "cheating" or dangerous side effects like roid rage, cardiovascular issues, and long-term health risks. However, for many actors, the stakes are high, and multimillion-dollar contracts for blockbuster films create a powerful incentive to use these enhancements.
