Jean-Claude Van Damme turns 65: Hard blows in real life

Jean-Claude Van Damme is undoubtedly one of the most famous action stars in Hollywood. The Belgian started out as a martial artist and made the leap to Hollywood with “Bloodsport” (1988). Since then, he has embodied the epitome of the muscle-bound fighter who was knocked down more than once in real life. He turns 65 this Saturday.

Jean-Claude Camille François Van Varenberg was born in Berchem-Sainte-Agathe near Brussels. He started karate at the age of ten and earned his black belt at 18. He also trained in taekwondo and ballet – a balance that later influenced his movements on the screen. In 1978 he was named “Mr. Belgium” in bodybuilding. In his biography, Van Damme has a fight record of 18 victories, all by knockout; However, the information is controversial. The press still dubbed him “The Muscles from Brussels”.

In 1982 Van Damme moved to the USA, where he initially appeared in small supporting roles and kept himself afloat with odd jobs. During this time he met action veteran Chuck Norris, with whom he remains friends to this day. Van Damme worked temporarily as a bouncer in Norris’ bar “Woody’s Wharf” and was hired by him as a stuntman for “Missing in Action” (1984) – the first step towards Hollywood.

He first attracted attention with the role of the villain in “Karate Tiger” (1986). The breakthrough followed two years later with “Bloodsport”. This was followed by successes such as “Kickboxer” (1989), “With a Steel Fist” (1990), “Geballed Charge – Double Impact” (1991) and “Universal Soldier” (1992), where he met Dolph Lundgren (67). In the ’90s, Van Damme was everywhere – until stress and a lavish lifestyle took their toll.

Van Damme developed a severe cocaine addiction, reportedly spending up to $10,000 a week on it. According to director Steven E. de Souza, while filming “Street Fighter” (1994), he was “on cocaine the whole time.” In 1996 he entered treatment, but soon dropped out. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Things were also turbulent in his private life: five marriages with four women, plus an alleged affair with singer Kylie Minogue (57). His escapades and drug use caused Hollywood to distance itself. From then on, the former star primarily shot for the video market.

In 2008, Van Damme celebrated a notable comeback with the self-deprecating film “JCVD.” In it he played himself – a washed-up action star looking back on his career. He later lent his voice to Master Croc in “Kung Fu Panda 2” (2011) and appeared in “The Expendables 2” (2012). After that it became quieter around him again. Instead of blockbusters, smaller productions and commitments to animal welfare followed.

Recently, Van Damme hit the headlines again: allegations of sexual misconduct were made against him in France, which the actor firmly denies. The investigation is ongoing.