'Pumping Iron' Author Charles Gaines Dies at 84

Charles Gaines, whose 1970s book and documentary "Pumping Iron" launched Arnold Schwarzenegger's rise from bodybuilding to Hollywood stardom and the California governorship, died July 21, 2026, at 84. His daughter, Greta Gaines, confirmed the death to The Guardian and AP. No cause was disclosed. Schwarzenegger posted an Instagram tribute honoring Gaines's role in his trajectory.