The Man Inside the Hulk

November 9, 1951 - Today is Lou Ferrigno's birthday. His dad was a New York City cop. As an infant, Ferrigno suffered from a major ear infection that claimed much of his hearing. He would struggle with a speech impediment into adulthood.

Inspired by his bodybuilding hero, Steve Reeves, young Ferrigno started weight training when he was just 13 years old. By the time he was 18 he would win both the Mr. America and the Mr. Universe titles.

In 1977, Ferrigno followed Steve Reeves' footsteps to Hollywood and auditioned for what would become his most famous role, The Incredible Hulk.