« Previous Next »

Hal Katz Bodybuilder Then And Now

By Cornell Scott / March 11, 2024

Hal Katz Then

Hal Katz was born in New York City in 1930. He began lifting weights at the age of 14 and quickly developed a passion for the sport. In 1950, he won the Mr. New York State title and went on to compete in the Mr. America contest the following year. Katz placed third in the Mr. America contest in 1952 and 1953, and he won the title in 1954.

In 1955, Katz won the Mr. Universe title, becoming the first American to win the prestigious competition. He went on to win the Mr. Universe title again in 1956 and 1957. Katz retired from competitive bodybuilding in 1958, but he remained active in the sport as a trainer and writer.

Katz’s family background is not well-known, but he is known to have had a close relationship with his mother. He was married twice and had two children.

Competitive History

1950: Mr. New York State – 1st
1951: Mr. America – 3rd
1952: Mr. America – 3rd
1953: Mr. America – 1st
1955: Mr. Universe – 1st
1956: Mr. Universe – 1st
1957: Mr. Universe – 1st

Life History

After retiring from competitive bodybuilding, Katz worked as a trainer and writer. He also appeared in several bodybuilding films and television shows. In 1979, he was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame.

Katz died in 2009 at the age of 79. He is remembered as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time.