Writing

Charles Gaines

Born 1942-01-06 · Jacksonville, Florida, USA

Charles Latham Gaines Jr. (January 6, 1942 – July 21, 2026) was an American writer and outdoorsman, notable for numerous works in both the fiction and non-fiction genres. His writing most typically concerns the outdoors sports of fishing in general and fly fishing in particular, as well as upland bird hunting and mountaineering, often with an intellectual and philosophical bent, and an eye towards the various cultures and traditions surrounding different forms of fishing around the world. In addition to his outdoors writings, Gaines covered the 'Golden Age' of professional bodybuilding and is the co-author (with George Butler, who did the photography) of Pumping Iron: The Art and Sport of Bodybuilding (1974), considered the definitive journalistic work in that field, and credited with bringing greater awareness to a specialized subculture, as well as helping to launch the career of Arnold Schwarzenegger. Gaines also narrated and contributed to the documentary film of the same name. Gaines was active in the conservation movement and in particular the stewardship of the North American Atlantic Salmon fisheries. He served on the board of directors of the Atlantic Salmon Federation. He was also the co-creator of the sport of paintball, following a discussion about whether or not a person who lived primarily in a city could survive in the wilderness.

Acting credits

7.1

Amateur and professional bodybuilders prepare for the 1975 Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe contests as five-time champion Arnold Schwarzenegger defends his Mr. Olympia title against Serge Nubret and the shy young Lou Ferrigno.

Pumping Iron

1977

6.7

A common friend's sudden death brings three men, married with children, to reconsider their lives and ultimately leave the country together. But mindless enthusiasm for regained freedom will be short-lived.

Husbands

1970

6.3

A pair of thieves operate in the American South between 1911 and 1915, stealing from rich, white capitalists, and giving to Mexicans, Native Americans and poor whites.

Thomasine & Bushrod

1974

Behind the camera

7.1

Pumping Iron

1977

5.7

A dishonest businessman asks rich layabout Craig Blake to help him buy a gym, which will be demolished for a development project in Alabama. But after spending time with weightlifter Joe Santo and gym worker Mary Tate Farnsworth, Craig wants out of the deal. The property negotiations turn ugly, causing a brawl at the gym and a spectacle at a big bodybuilding meet, as Craig learns that it's not easy to turn your back on fair-weather friends.

Stay Hungry

1976

5.4

A strippers' convention and a major contest. The movie focuses on a few strippers, each with her own strong motive to win.

Stripper

1985