Richard Dubois, 1950s bodybuilder and pinup, dies at 74 in Calif.
The Associated Press
Article Launched: 09/27/2007 10:08:31 PM PDT
SANTA MONICA, Calif.—Richard DuBois, a bodybuilder whose brawny physique landed him parts in 1950s movies and Mae West's stage act, has died. He was 74.
DuBois died Wednesday at Saint John's Health Center, his wife Marcy said. She said an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death. He lived in Santa Monica.
The winner of Mr. America and the Mr. USA bodybuilding contests in the mid 1950s, DuBois' Herculean frame landed a contract with MGM and a role in the 1954 movie "Athena" with Debbie Reynolds and Jane Powell. He appeared in the musical comedy under the stage name Richard Sabre.
DuBois later appeared with Mae West in her nightclub act as it toured across the country.
Dubois eventually abandoned his show business pursuits to become an evangelist, his wife said. He spent the last 19 years preaching as pastor of Gospel Lighthouse in West Los Angeles.
Besides his wife of 47 years, DuBois is survived by his son Elijah, daughter-in-law Carol, granddaughter Jasmine and sister Marcy.
A memorial service was scheduled for next weekend.
