One of my favorite ebay stores, Camp-Classics, is hosting a special Steve Reeves sale this week. You’ve got to check it out. There’s a link at right on my favorite websites list.

As a huge fan of this American Goliath, I can’t stop looking at the pictures posted alongside these auctions. For me, Steve Reeves represented absolute perfection.

He was not only extremely good-looking, one of the finest bodybuilders (natural, before the influx of steroids and other physique enhancing drugs), who won numerous titles, including Mr. World, Mr. Universe and Mr. America, but also was one of the nicest guys on the planet.

He was gracious, considerate to others and an emblem of all that is fine about America. He became an international legend and icon by portraying Hercules in numerous films.

He appeared in non-mythic roles as well, including the hilarious Jail Bait by none other than camp film director, Ed Wood, as well as one of my faves, Athena, opposite Debbie Reynolds and Jane Powell. And let’s not forget, Morgan the Pirate.

For many he became the symbol of American virility and masculine beauty. .

Even into his 60s, he was godlike and stunningly handsome. Sadly, he died in 2000 at the age of 74. Steve Reeves was one of those heroes I thought would live for ever.