The Fascinating Transformation of Orson Welles: From Thin to Fat and Back Again

Orson Welles was one of the greatest directors, actors, and producers to ever grace the silver screen. From his performance in Citizen Kane to his direction of Touch of Evil and Chimes at Midnight, his body of work is widely considered one of the most impressive of all time. But perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Welles’ career is his remarkable transformation from a thin, boyish-looking actor to an overweight and larger-than-life presence. Here’s a closer look at the fascinating transformation of Orson Welles: from thin to fat and back again.

Early Years: A Thin, Boyish-Looking Orson Welles

Orson Welles was born in Wisconsin on May 6th, 1915. He was a precocious child and an enthusiastic learner. As an adolescent, he acted on stage and appeared in a series of theatrical productions. Throughout his early years, Welles was a thin, boyish-looking figure. But even at a young age, his talent was evident and his charisma undeniable.

The Rise to Stardom: Thin Orson Welles Takes Hollywood by Storm

At the age of 19, Orson Welles made a name for himself with his celebrated and controversial performance of Citizen Kane. The movie was an instant success and Welles’ performance was heralded as one of the finest of all time. He followed this up with a number of other successful films, such as The Magnificent Ambersons, Journey into Fear and The Stranger. Throughout this time, Welles remained a thin and nimble actor.

The Hollywood Years: Orson Welles’ Weight Gains Significantly

In the 1940s and 1950s, Welles began to gain weight. His waistline expanded, and his face became fuller. This was largely due to his hectic lifestyle and his fondness for food. Welles was known to consume large meals and snack frequently. In addition to his diet, Welles also developed a fondness for alcohol and smoking, both of which contributed to his weight gain.

His Later Years: A Large, Manly Orson Welles

By the 1960s, Welles had ballooned to more than 300 pounds. His face was bloated and he had a thick, manly physique. He was now a far cry from his earlier incarnation as a slim, boyish actor. His large frame made him an imposing figure, and he was often seen wearing large capes and hats to hide his weight.

The ’70s: Orson Welles’ Weight Loss Journey Begins

In the 1970s, Welles began to take steps to lose the weight. He adopted a healthier lifestyle and began to exercise regularly. He also began to cut down on his alcohol and smoking, and implemented a strict diet. Together, these efforts helped him to shed more than 100 pounds.

The 1980s: Orson Welles Returns to His Slim Self

By the 1980s, Welles had managed to return to his slim, boyish self. He was now back to his old self and his performances had returned to their former glory. He continued to act and direct throughout the decade, and although his weight fluctuated, he was able to keep it under control.

His Final Years: Orson Welles Keeps His Weight Steady

In the 1990s, Welles was diagnosed with high blood pressure and diabetes. Although these conditions made it difficult for him to maintain his weight, he was able to manage them with medication and a healthy diet. In his final years, Welles managed to keep his weight under control, and he continued to act and direct until his death in 1985.

Final Thoughts: The Fascinating Transformation of Orson Welles

The fascinating transformation of Orson Welles is one of the most remarkable stories in Hollywood history. From his thin, boyish-looking self of the 1930s to his large, imposing figure of the 1960s, Welles’ weight gain and loss was an incredible journey. He was able to control his weight in his later years and, to this day, he remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.