Actors Who Have Publicly Admitted to Using Steroids

Steroids have been a controversial topic in Hollywood, especially when actors transform their bodies for blockbuster roles. While many stars dodge questions about performance-enhancing drugs, some have been open about their use, either for roles or personal reasons, shedding light on the pressures of the industry.

This list highlights actors who have publicly admitted to using steroids, offering insight into their reasons and the impact on their careers. From action heroes to dramatic performers, these admissions reveal the lengths some go to for the perfect physique.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger, a bodybuilding legend turned actor, has been open about his steroid use during his competitive years. He used them under medical supervision in the 1970s, when steroids were less regulated, to build his iconic physique for films like ‘Conan the Barbarian’ and ‘The Terminator’.

He’s stated he has no regrets, emphasizing that it was a different era with less stigma. His transparency has sparked debates about the ethics of performance-enhancing drugs in both sports and entertainment.

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone admitted to using human growth hormone (HGH) to prepare for ‘Rambo’. In 2007, he was caught with 48 vials of HGH in Australia, leading to a public acknowledgment of his use.

He’s defended it as a way to maintain energy and physique as he aged. Stallone’s case highlights how older actors sometimes turn to steroids to meet Hollywood’s physical demands.

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson

Dwayne Johnson confessed to trying steroids as a teenager with friends, unaware of their full effects. He’s since claimed to rely on hard work and diet for his massive frame in films like ‘Black Adam’.

His admission came in a 2009 MTV interview, but he insists he’s been clean since. Fans still speculate about his physique, given the rapid transformations required for his roles.

Mickey Rourke

Mickey Rourke hinted at steroid use for his role in ‘The Wrestler’, saying he behaved like a wrestler to get into character. At 56, he gained 45 pounds of muscle, which raised eyebrows.

His vague comments suggest method acting pushed him toward performance-enhancing drugs. The physical toll of the role left him looking worn, fitting the film’s narrative of a broken-down fighter.

Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen admitted to using steroids for ‘Major League’ to boost his fastball from 79 to 85 mph. He took them for six to eight weeks during filming to enhance his performance as a pitcher.

Sheen’s openness came in a Sports Illustrated interview, where he downplayed the controversy. His case shows how actors sometimes use steroids for specific, non-aesthetic purposes.

Joe Rogan

Joe Rogan, known for his podcast and past acting roles, has admitted to using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and HGH for over a decade. He’s been candid about it on his show, citing health and fitness benefits.

His background in martial arts and commentary gave him insight into performance-enhancing drugs. Rogan’s transparency contrasts with the secrecy of many actors.

Alan Ritchson

Alan Ritchson revealed he used testosterone for ‘Reacher’ to recover from the physical strain of the role. He said it was crucial for his health and longevity in the demanding series.

His 2023 admission sparked discussions about the pressures of maintaining superhero-like physiques. Ritchson’s honesty highlights the toll of action roles on actors’ bodies.

Oliver Stone

Oliver Stone, better known as a director, has acted in small roles and admitted to using HGH for its anti-aging effects. In his 70s, he credits it with keeping him youthful and energetic.

Stone’s openness reflects a growing acceptance of performance-enhancing drugs for aging gracefully. His case shows how steroids extend beyond just physical roles in Hollywood.

Nick Nolte

Nick Nolte has spoken about using HGH in his 60s to combat aging and maintain vitality. He’s been vocal about experimenting with performance-enhancing drugs, often snapping at reporters who questioned him.

Nolte’s candidness stems from his belief in personal health choices. His use aligns with a trend among older actors seeking to stay competitive in the industry.

Dixie Carter

Dixie Carter, known for ‘Designing Women’, openly praised HGH for its anti-aging benefits. She used it to maintain her appearance and energy in a youth-driven industry.

Her admission was rare for female actors, who face different pressures than their male counterparts. Carter’s case shows how steroids can be used beyond muscle-building.

Jeremy Jackson

Jeremy Jackson, a ‘Baywatch’ star, admitted to spending $200,000 on steroids, injections, and pills over three years. His “addict mentality” drove him to enhance his physique for a comeback as an action star.

Jackson’s story reveals the darker side of steroid use in Hollywood. His excessive spending and health risks highlight the dangers of unregulated use.

Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson

Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, who played The Mountain in ‘Game of Thrones’, admitted to using steroids to achieve his massive size. He said, “When you want to be the best, you do whatever it takes.”

His 2017 admission came during interviews about his bodybuilding career. Björnsson’s case shows how steroids are sometimes seen as necessary for extreme roles.

Rob Mac

Rob McElhenney, star of ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’, has hinted at steroid use for his dramatic ‘fat Mac to fit Mac’ transformation. He’s suggested in interviews that he used enhancements to achieve the look.

His openness, even if vague, points to the pressures of TV roles. McElhenney’s case shows how comedy actors also face physical expectations.

Alex Rodriguez

Alex Rodriguez, primarily a baseball player but also an actor in small roles, admitted to steroid use during his sports career. His 2009 confession detailed using performance-enhancing drugs to boost performance.

While his acting roles are minor, his high-profile case crosses into entertainment. Rodriguez’s admission shows how steroid scandals span industries.

Lance Armstrong

Lance Armstrong, known as a cyclist but with cameo acting roles, admitted to using steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs in 2013. His confession came after years of denials, shaking his public image.

His limited acting work ties him to Hollywood, where his case is a cautionary tale. Armstrong’s fall shows the risks of steroid exposure.

Marion Jones

Marion Jones, an Olympic sprinter with minor acting roles, admitted to steroid use in 2007 after a doping scandal. Her confession led to her losing medals and credibility.

Her brief foray into acting connects her to this list. Jones’s case underscores the consequences of steroid use in the public eye.

Jose Canseco

Jose Canseco, a former baseball player with small acting roles, has been vocal about his steroid use in the 1980s and 1990s. His 2005 book, Juiced, detailed his experiences and named other users.

His acting credits, though minor, link him to Hollywood. Canseco’s openness made him a polarizing figure in both sports and entertainment.

What’s your take on actors using steroids for roles—fair game or unfair pressure? Share your thoughts in the comments!