Serge Nubret was a French professional bodybuilder, actor and author who won numerous titles and accolades in his career. He was known for his symmetrical and aesthetic physique, earning him the nicknames “The Black Panther” and “The Nubret Lion”. He was also featured in the famous documentary Pumping Iron, where he competed against Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno for the Mr. Olympia title in 1975. But how did this bodybuilding icon die? And what are the rumors and controversies surrounding his death?
The Official Cause of Death
According to official sources, Serge Nubret died of natural causes on April 19, 2011, at the age of 72. He had been in a coma for two years after suffering a stroke in March 2009. He was found unconscious at his home in Paris by firefighters and was taken to the Lariboisiere hospital, where he remained under medical supervision until his death. His funeral was held on April 29, 2011, in Paris.
The Poisoning Allegations
However, some people have questioned the official cause of death and have speculated that Nubret was poisoned by his own children in an attempt to inherit his money and property. These allegations were fueled by a post that Nubret himself allegedly wrote on a bodybuilding forum before he fell into a coma, where he claimed that he was poisoned by his children and that he needed help. He also said that his daughter, who was a doctor, was in charge of his care and that he was getting better until the police got involved.
These rumors were never substantiated by any evidence or investigation, but they continued to circulate online and in some magazines. Nubret’s family denied these accusations and issued a statement refuting them. They said that Nubret’s coma was caused by a hypoglycemic coma due to a pancreatic malfunction and that the explorations were ongoing while he was in rehabilitation. They also asked for respect and privacy during their difficult time.
The Legacy of Serge Nubret
Despite the mystery and controversy surrounding his death, Serge Nubret remains one of the most respected and admired bodybuilders of all time. He inspired generations of athletes and fans with his dedication, passion and physique. He also contributed to the development and promotion of bodybuilding as a sport and as an art form. He founded the World Amateur Body Building Association (WABBA) in 1976 and served as its president until his death. He also wrote an autobiography titled Je suis…Moi &Dieu (I am…Me and God) in 2006, where he shared his life story and his Christian beliefs.
Serge Nubret was a legend in bodybuilding and a star in cinema. He left behind a legacy of excellence, beauty and grace that will never be forgotten.
