Long before Marvel and DC started digging through their archives for whatever semi-recognizable spandex-clad heroes they could squeeze into FunkPop form, the people saving the day in Hollywood were just that: people. Everyday ordinary joes, off-duty cops, and cooks who were really former Navy SEALs in disguise. Back in the 80s and 90s, when blockbusters were all about bazookas and brawn, some of the biggest movie stars in the world were guys who looked good in a bloodstained tank-top. Steven Seagal and Jean Claude Van Damme were never the major A-listers. But they certainly knew how to sell a few well-time karate chops. And their verbal sparring brought the two of them close to blows at the height of their fame. Be sure to read James Kendrick's insightful texts on the action genre: Hollywood Bloodshed: Violence in 1980s American Cinema and A Companion to the Action Film. Hosted by Bridget Todd Written by Benjamin Austin-Docampo Editing & Sound Design by Pete Musto Produced by James Levine Created by Executive Producer Jeremiah Tittle Find out more about all of Next Chapter Podcasts' incredible content at ncpodcasts.com! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices