Jack Lalanne, renowned as the ‘Godfather of Fitness’ for his iconic fitness TV show, had a lesser-known chapter in his life — one captured through sizzling photographs.
In his youth, Lalanne was a national wrestling champion before the age of 20. During this time, he joined a trend among bodybuilders, posing for homoerotic, full-frontal nude photos – a practice common in the mid-20th century.
Lalanne’s solo nude photos may seem somber, lacking personality compared to the vibrant landscapes that frame him. However, a fascinating twist emerges when he collaborates with fellow bodybuilder Jack Thomas in a series of duo nude photos.
Photographer Russ Warner, known for photographing bodybuilders for fitness magazines and clandestine nude sales, sometimes doubled photos, adding painted-on pouches. Lalanne denied these photos’ existence and attempted to buy and destroy them, particularly troubled by the homoerotic nature of the duo shots with Jack Thomas.
Unlike Lalanne, Jack Thomas exudes personality in both solo and duo photos.
In 1979, Lalanne threatened to protest LGBTQ+ individuals and sex workers, but it appears his motivation was more about promoting his TV show.
Explore these once-hidden photographs, offering a unique perspective on the enigmatic fitness icon.