Arnold Schwarzenegger is a true powerhouse, pouring his heart into every endeavor he undertakes. From his early days of bodybuilding, where he channeled unmatched dedication to sculpting his body into a masterpiece, to his transition into acting, where his charisma and passion lit up the screen, Schwarzenegger’s commitment shines through. While most of these roles only pushed the Austrian Oak to be a better person, Conan the Barbarian stayed true to its name as it took him to uncharted territory.

The transformation from bodybuilder to the iconic sword-wielding warrior required him to embrace a new kind of physical and emotional intensity. Director John Milius had some very unconventional methods in mind to help achieve that.

When Arnold Schwarzenegger made some questionable choices for Conan the Barbarian

Arnold Schwarzenegger is a man of many stories owing to the plethora of experiences he has had throughout the decades. While the actor often shares tidbits of such experiences on his social media handles and interviews, it was only with the release of his new book, Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life that fans really got to relish them. One of the many intriguing experiences that made it to the book included the time he spent preparing for Conan the Barbarian. The actor was kind enough to spare his fans the details of his preparation for the role, which included eating a “dead vulture.”

Given that the 76-year-old was at that time playing a literal Barbarian, John Milius believed that he needed to get in the flesh of the character. In order to do so, Schwarzenegger had to learn horse riding, camel riding, and elephant riding, among other things. But as if replicating Tarzan’s actions was not enough, the director believed the Austrian Oak needed to get a taste of a dead vulture.

While he may have agreed to it then, it would prove catastrophic for the actor now. Not only because eating the “dead vulture” does not align with his image, but it would also have landed him in trouble with his now trusted companion, PETA.

Does the Austrian Oak support PETA?

Arnold Schwarzenegger has come very far from the days when he used to consume a gazillion eggs a day, birds, and meat, among other things. At 76, the Austrian Oak prides himself on being an advocate of environmentalism and animal welfare. Once an avid meat eater, the actor had to gradually cut down on the consumption of animal-based food in his diet. This has earned him immense respect from PETA, who often highlight the former bodybuilder’s efforts.

In an article published in 2016, the animal welfare organization lauded Schwarzenegger for saying ‘Hasta La Vista’ to meat. PETA applauds Arnold Schwarzenegger for his commendable efforts in promoting animal welfare and sustainable living through his advocacy and lifestyle choices. Not only has he led by example, but he is also providing effective plans to others who are willing to make the environment great again through his Pump Club.

What do you think about Arnold Schwarzenegger eating a “dead vulture“? Let us know in the comments below.