Steve Reeves - Biography - Bodybuilder

Below are a few of the hundreds of press clippings we have on Steve's bodybuilding career. We will add to this collection in the coming months.

News Report from the Mr. Pacific Coast 1946

Among the many contests that have been held throughout the nation, last year the "Mr. Pacific Coast" event ranks as one of the most important. This sectional contest took place in Portland, Oregon 21st. In this trio of impressively developed athletes we see the three finalists as they appeared at the conclusion of the contest. The body builder at the left is Mario Gregor from Vancouver, Canada representing the Western Sports Centre. Mario placed third. The winner, Herculean Steve Reeves, is standing in the center. Steve is from Oakland, California and trains at Ed Yarick's studio there. He will be a serious contender for the 1947 "Mr. America" title. Standing at the right is Don Malucci from Portland, Oregon. Don, who placed second, represented the studio operated by Williams & Cahill."

Promotional Place card

Promotional Place card for the Mr. Pacific Coast contest (click to see larger view).

Signing Autographs from Cannes France

Steve Reeves made a great hit with the youth of France during his recent trip there when he won the "Mr. World" title. Here he is shown busy signing autographs for some of his admirers. Note how his powerful arm and shoulder can be seen even in this informal pose.

Steve Helping a Future Mr. America at Ed Yaricks gym

On the left Steve Reeves instructing a youthful body builder. Steve devotes many hours to helping others learn the secrets of real strength and development. Naturally he teaches the bar bell way, which is the best way.

The Detroit NewsTuesday, July 1, 1947

Vet Is Mr. America of 1947 Steve Reeves, Oakland, Calif., veteran, poses for his first picture as Mr. America of 1947. Acme Relephoto.

Bulging Biceps to Ripple Here In California Muscle Match

Muscles will ripple in Oakland's Auditorium Theater Friday night when the International Federation of Body builders conducts a "Mr. California" contest starting at 8 p.m. Among famous biceps and torso men slated to appear are Oakland's Steve Reeves, "Mr. America" of 1947, and Clancy Ross of Alameda," Mr. U.S.A." of 1948. Competition for the "Mr. California" title is open to any physique culturist in the state with prizes and trophies for winners and runners up. Weight lifting and balancing sets will be presented in conjunction with contest for "Mr. California" honors.

Angela Lansbury and Cobina Wright, Apple Valley Inn sojourners, take a poke at "Mr. World's" biceps.

staring on still another cup of tea) the Apple Valley Inn's publicity director asked her if she and Peter would mind taking a picture with Mr. World, who was also weekending at the hotel, mostly on a horse. Rides 'em bareback, like an Indian. Steve Reeves is a Montana boy who became Mr. America of 1947. He went to Europe and became Mr. World at Cannes in 1948. MGM was all for signing him for "Quo Vadis" before it went on the shelf -- even though he'd make those other gladiators (Gregory Peck, for example) look just a little spindly around the gams. In case you ever want to try out for Mr World you should have his measurements: height six feet one inch, weight 210 pounds, biceps 18 inches, chest over 50 inches, waistline 29 inches.

Mr. America Likes to Cook!

When lovely girls pass by Steve Reeves, Oakland, Calif., they're the ones who whistle. For Steve is the winner of a recent "beautiful man" contest sponsored by the Amateur Athletic Union and bears the title, "Mr. America".

Mr. America Helps City of Hope, Duarte California

From the desk of Harry L. Lechtman City of Hope.

6/11/52 Fritz: Here are a half dozen copies of the house-organ I put out here ( In addition 20 20,000 other things.) Your boy Steve might like a few copies. You might tell him that at least 40,000 people around the country see this-- and more important--read it cover to cover. I'm writing I'm a thank-you note for coming down to the pier Sunday to work with the kids--but meanwhile, you can tell him in person how much we all appreciated his fine cooperation. Harry L.