Erland Van Lidth De Jeude

Actor and amateur wrestler[citation needed]

What is Erland Van Lidth De Jeude known for?

Erland Van Lidth De Jeude was known for his diverse range of talents - an actor, opera singer, and amateur wrestler. Born on June 3, 1953, in Hilversum, Netherlands, he migrated to the United States with his family in 1958. Initially residing in Orange, New Jersey, they moved several times within Connecticut before finally settling in Mont Vernon, New Hampshire in 1970. Here, he attended Milford Area Senior High School and graduated in 1972.

Erland was distinguished not only in academics but also in sports and arts. He played center and nose guard on the varsity football team and appeared in theatrical productions during his high school years. Later, he attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he studied computer science and graduated with a B.S. in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering in 1977. He was also a member of the wrestling team, becoming the 1976 NCAA Division III runner-up in the heavyweight division.

Transitioning into his professional life, Erland worked in Manhattan as a computer professional. He was an alternate in the heavyweight wrestling team at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. He also won the Bronze Medal in the international competition held in Tehran in 1978. However, his preparation for the 1980 Olympics was cut short due to the United States boycotting the event in Moscow.

Aside from his career in technology and wrestling, Erland made a notable name in acting. His large build - standing at 6'6" and weighing 340 pounds - caught the attention of a casting director at the New York Athletic Club. This led to his role as "Terror", the leader of the Fordham Baldies, in the 1979 film ‘The Wanderers’. He went on to play in 'Stir Crazy' alongside Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder, and in 'The Running Man' featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger. He is best remembered for his role as Dynamo in 'The Running Man', a sadistic stalker who sings an aria before electrocuting his victims.

His love for the arts wasn't limited to acting. Erland was also a talented opera singer. He sang frequently with the Amato Opera in New York, studying to become a Heldenbaritone. He was so committed to his craft that he once turned down a film role because it required him to shave his head, something he had done for previous roles in 'The Wanderers' and 'Stir Crazy'.

In addition to his many talents, Erland was also an educator. He taught computer programming at Manhattan Community College. However, his life was cut short when he passed away on September 23, 1987, in Manhattan, New York City.

Erland Van Lidth De Jeude lived a life full of achievements, enriching the fields of sports, arts, technology, and education. His contributions continue to resonate and inspire future generations.