Just like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lisa Lyon was considered an inspiring icon in the world of bodybuilding. Two days ago, the extraordinary woman passed away at the age of 70. In her career as a bodybuilder, she broke through many barriers to emerge as one of the best in male-dominated sports. Hence, she is often lauded as the muse for many female bodybuilders who came after her. And also the inspiration for Marvel’s superhero from its Daredevil comics, Elektra.

Unfortunately, her last days were spent battling stomach cancer, which became the cause of her demise. As her long-time friend and supporter, Schwarzenegger spoke about his feelings for her recently.

Arnold Schwarzenegger had this to say about Lisa Lyon

One week ago, Arnold Schwarzenegger was approached by TMZ for his thoughts on Lisa Lyon’s condition as she was battling her cancer at the time. To this, he responded by saying that Lyon was “the best” and that he loved her. The ordeal must have been particularly painful for the 76-year-old as he also lost another dear friend from his body-building glory days earlier this year. 

Lyon and Schwarzenegger had first crossed paths in 1979 after she emerged as the champion at the first-ever IFBB Women’s Bodybuilding Championship. As two successful pioneers of the sport, the duo had much in common. But unlike the Austrian Oak, she never entered Tinseltown.

Although Lisa Lyon never tried her hands at acting, she influenced the Marvel artist who sketched a Marvel superhero in her image. And her journey to become Marvel’s muse was as ‘electric’ as the superhero she inspired. 

How did Lisa Lyon become the inspiration for Elektra?

With every pose she struck, Lisa Lyon mesmerized all who gazed upon her majestic form. Through a unique blend of athleticism and elegance, she went on to become a renowned model, having worked with magazines like Playboy. For Frank Miller, who was entrusted with drawing Elektra’s sketch, she was the perfect woman to use as inspiration. So, he created Elektra in her image.

With Jennifer Garner reviving her role as Elektra through the upcoming Deadpool 3, Lyon’s fans will have another thing to remember her by. After all, the legendary bodybuilder was a real-life superhero in her own right. 

Did you know that Lisa Lyon was the pioneer of female bodybuilding and a friend of The Terminator actor? Tell us your answer in the comments.