TOMBSTONE TRIBUTES

Steve Reeves
by: Dave Ferrier

   In the late 1950s, Joseph Levine, a producer of some chutzpah, advertised heavily for a foreign film entitled Hercules, which did well at the box office with Steve Reeves (Mr. America of 1947) in the title role.

    Born in Glasgow, Montana, Reeves became so popular internationally that he worked another 10 years churning out toga-wearing and pirate-suited sagas.

    His last flick was a "Spaghetti Western" called A Long Ride From Hell.  In this Oater, he seriously injured his shoulder while performing a stunt in the water.

    Reeves was offered the legendary role of Sergio Leone's "Man With No Name" but turned it down, opening the door for Clint Eastwood.  He was also offered the part of James Bond in Dr. No, but turned it down flat for lack of wages.

  Steve Reeves enjoyed horses and had his own ranch in Southern California for a number of years.

    Mr. Reeves was certainly a wholesome role model for his generation and those to come.