Now that the 2024 Olympics Games are among us, it’s time to remember which celebrities of the industry have had an athletic past and have been part of the event that this year will take place in Paris for the third time.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow and will be one of a kind, as it will take place along the Seine River, with athletes traveling by boat past iconic monuments, culminating grandly at the Eiffel Tower.
The transition from Olympic athletes to stars in the entertainment industry is a process that can vary significantly from person to person, but generally involves a combination of talent, opportunity and the ability to reinvent oneself.
Stars who were once participants in the Olympic Games
Jason Statham: Before becoming a famous actor known for roles in action films like “The Transporter” and “The Expendables”, Jason was a competitive diver. He was a member of Britain’s National Diving Squad for twelve years and competed in the 1990 Commonwealth Games.
Caitlyn Jenner (formerly Bruce Jenner): Caitlyn won the gold medal in the men’s decathlon at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. She became an American hero and later transitioned into a successful career in television and as a motivational speaker.
Johnny Weissmuller: Before becoming famous for his role as Tarzan in the 1930s, Weissmuller was an accomplished swimmer. He won five gold medals in swimming at the 1924 and 1928 Olympics.
Esther Williams: Known as a popular Hollywood actress and swimmer, Esther was supposed to compete in the 1940 Summer Olympics, which were canceled due to World War II. She later starred in many films featuring elaborate synchronized swimming scenes.
Kurt Thomas: An American gymnast, Kurt competed in the 1976 Olympics before transitioning to an acting career. He starred in the 1985 martial arts film “Gymkata”.
Johnny Weir: An accomplished figure skater, Johnny represented the United States at the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympics. After his competitive skating career, he became a television commentator and personality.
Sonia O’Sullivan: An Irish middle-distance runner, Sonia competed in four Olympic Games from 1992 to 2004. After her athletic career, she became a sports commentator and motivational speaker.
