Jean-Claude Van Damme is a bodybuilder, martial artist, director, screenwriter, fight scene choreographer, actor, and producer. He shot to fame for his starring roles in action films and his impressive ability to perform difficult stunts himself. One move, in particular, his legendary full side split, made him iconic, a feat he can still pull off today, even at his age.

Jean-Claude Camille François Van Varenberg was born and raised in the Brussels area. He was an only child, and his parents absolutely doted on him, especially his mother. Jean-Claude was a frail and sickly child, and his mother adored him, pampered him, and practically shielded him from the world. He grew up as a real mama’s boy—sensitive and tearful, always running to his mother whenever something upset him. He wore glasses and was slouched, which made him a target for bullying. His peers tormented him mercilessly, making him more withdrawn and introverted. His situation was made worse by bipolar disorder, something he suffered from since childhood.

Back then, doctors didn’t treat it as a serious condition, so Jean-Claude’s father took matters into his own hands. He enrolled his son in a martial arts class. His father believed that through martial arts, Jean-Claude would not only learn to defend himself but also grow in confidence and improve his health.

Today, Van Damme’s movies are blockbusters that draw massive crowds to theaters. But once upon a time, he was just a struggling athlete with dreams of landing even the smallest role in a film. He relentlessly auditioned, all while taking odd jobs. He worked as a driver, laid floors, and even worked as a bouncer in a nightclub owned by Chuck Norris. It was Norris who offered the muscular young man a small part in one of his films. That role opened doors, and soon enough, other directors took notice.

From his first role, Jean-Claude adopted a stage name. His Belgian surname was too difficult to pronounce. Van Damme’s breakthrough came with the film *Bloodsport*. After that, he became a bona fide action star, and the offers rolled in. His reputation was bolstered by the fact that he performed all his stunts himself. From there, he became one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actors, recognized not only in the U.S. but worldwide.

Van Damme’s first marriage took place back in Belgium before he made his way to Hollywood. His wife didn’t share his dreams of Tinseltown, and they divorced when he moved to pursue his acting career. His second wife, Cynthia Derderian, was the daughter of his boss at a company where Jean-Claude worked as a driver. But fame took its toll, and their relationship crumbled.

The actor has said that maintaining youthful energy requires “discipline, focus, and the heart of a warrior,” and he’s made it clear he plans to keep up that mindset for years to come.