Roland Kickinger Austrian bodybuilder and actor Date of Birth: 30.03.1968 Country: USA

1. Biography of Roland Kickinger
2. Early Life and Sports Career
3. Transition to Acting
4. Move to California
5. Acting and Bodybuilding Career

Biography of Roland Kickinger

Roland Kickinger, born on March 30, 1968, is an Austrian bodybuilder and actor. He gained fame through various bodybuilding competitions, fitness magazines, and training videos. As an actor, he is best known for his role as Chip Rommel in the television series 'Son of the Beach.' He also portrayed a young version of his fellow Austrian, Arnold Schwarzenegger, in the TV movie 'See Arnold Run.' More recently, he appeared in the film 'Terminator: Salvation,' playing the role of the T-800 cyborg, made famous by Schwarzenegger.

Early Life and Sports Career

Kickinger started his involvement in sports at a young age, initially engaging in regular fights with his older brother Kurt. His mother, Susanna, worked as a secretary and remained with the same company for twenty-five years. His father, Otmar, worked as a controller for Austrian trains, catching fare evaders.

At the age of fifteen, Kickinger discovered a small gym in Vienna. Despite its lack of windows and ventilation, he began training intensively. He would be the first to enter the gym in the morning and the last to leave in the evening, as he was required to clean up after closing as payment for the opportunity to train there. His dedication paid off, and his muscles grew rapidly.

Transition to Acting

Kickinger's mother supported his passion for bodybuilding, but his father saw it as a waste of time. However, Kickinger humorously attributes his success to his zodiac sign, Aries, and his strong skull. After completing his education in hotel and restaurant management at the age of nineteen, Kickinger embarked on a job in an American cruise line to explore the world.

During his employment as an assistant waiter, Kickinger improved his English skills and quickly advanced to become a waiter and then an assistant maitre d'. Despite the demanding workload, he continued his intense training, often exercising until three in the morning. After returning home, Kickinger worked in a hotel, but the monotony eventually pushed him to leave the hospitality industry after five years.

Move to California

Kickinger left Austria to pursue his dreams on the sunny beaches of California. Despite the objections of friends and family, he arrived in California with a clear plan. His main goal was to reach Venice, the mecca of bodybuilders at that time. However, he needed a car to get there, and purchasing one depleted most of his savings. Nonetheless, the car served as his transportation and home for a long time.

Acting and Bodybuilding Career

Although sports remained Kickinger's first love, he discovered his talent for acting shortly after moving to America. Starting with commercials and the TV series 'Son of the Beach,' he faced numerous rejections but eventually secured prominent roles, such as in 'Terminator: Salvation.'

Currently, Kickinger continues to pursue both his acting and bodybuilding careers, showcasing his talent and dedication in both fields.