Johnny Weissmuller

Swimmer and Tarzan movie star

Johnny Weissmuller - Swimmer and Tarzan movie star
Born

June 2nd, 1904
120 years ago

Died

January 20th, 1984
41 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Achieved prominence as a competitive swimmer, winning five Olympic gold medals in the 1920s. Set numerous world records in swimming, many of which stood for years. Transitioned to a successful acting career, becoming the first actor to portray Tarzan in film with the 1932 movie 'Tarzan the Ape Man.' Continued to star in multiple sequels, cementing a legacy in American cinema. Weissmuller's portrayal became iconic, and he contributed to popularizing the character of Tarzan in popular culture.

Winning five Olympic gold medals

Setting multiple world records in swimming

Starring in 'Tarzan the Ape Man' and sequels

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