Mike O’Hearn popped onto the Sept. 29, 2023, episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show on the Generation Iron YouTube channel to discuss his soon-to-be-released film projects and if actors are commonly using steroids to obtain their shredded silver-screen physiques fit to portray superheroes. Talking with Director of Generation Iron Vlad Yudin, the duo dives into Hollywood’s steroid rumors before staking their top picks to win the 2023 Mr. Olympia. Check it out below:
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Are Actors on Steroids?
When O’Hearn’s participation in the ESPN 30 For 30 documentary about the television show American Gladiator, in which O’Hearn portrayed the character “Titan,” was brought up, Yudin asked if anyone in that cast used steroids. O’Hearn mentioned competing in natural bodybuilding contests and drug testing regularly on set. O’Hearn’s competitive aspirations and job as a gladiator were contingent on maintaining an aesthetic physique.
Although O’Hearn doesn’t care if others want medical intervention to change their appearance, he doesn’t buy the rumors that big-name actors known for peeled physiques, such as Ryan Reynolds, Zac Efron, Rob McElhenney, or Kumail Nanjiani, use steroids to achieve their look. Those actors have access to elite trainers and nutritionists who can mold a successful diet and training program for them, with a major production studio to pick up the tab. O’Hearn isn’t a buyer that actors are shortcutting with steroids:
These guys are 150 pounds…it’s the industry that we live in. If you can’t look like that, then they’re doing something that you’re not.
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O’Hearn’s Love for Lifting
O’Hearn has long had a passion for bodybuilding and weightlifting. He believes steroids would not have helped his pursuit of long-term results. “By doing it the way I did it, my joints and my health [are] in check,” O’Hearn said. He still maintains a diet, even during the times when he utilizes cheat meals to put on pounds for increased strength. However, as he eclipses middle age, O’Hearn prioritizes eating healthy and consistent training.
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2023 Mr. Olympia Predictions
With the 2023 Mr. Olympia fast approaching on Nov. 2-5, 2023, in Orlando, FL, O’Hearn asked Yudin who Yudin thinks will take home the most prestigious title in bodybuilding. Yudin believes Hadi Choopan will defend his crown, but suggests Nick Walker, Hunter Labrada, and Derek Lunsford as the top competition to beat. Yudin remains impressed that two former 212 Division bodybuilders – Choopan and Lunsford – are at the top of the Men’s Open division.
O’Hearn believes Samson Dauda or Lunsford will ascend the Olympia throne because of how dialed in their physiques are. O’Hearn and Yudin agreed that reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia champ Chris Bumstead will claim his fifth consecutive title and that reigning Men’s Physique Olympia champion Erin Banks will defend the title against returning four-time Men’s Physique champion Jeremy Buendia.
Featured image: @mikeohearn on Instagram
