Clarence (Clancy) Ross
1923 – 2008
By Terry McConnell
Clarence "Clancy" Ross, who was most often referred to as "The King Of Bodybuilders ", passed away near the end of April 2008. He had just recently moved into a residence called "The Heritage" in Concord, California, near his home town of Oakland where he had planned to spend his remaining retirement years. He died at the age of 84.
Throughout his early career, Clancy had garnered several bodybuilding titles and was recognized worldwide as one of the truly strong men of bodybuilding. A long time friend, George Coates, recalls that in the Olympic lifts of his time, Clancy could snatch 280 pounds, press 315 pounds and clean and jerk 360 pounds. His persona and accomplishments were an integral part of the "Golden Era of Bodybuilding" when such other greats as John Grimek, Steve Reeves, Reg Park and other luminaries were prime examples of success in a unique sport.
Clarence Ross endured a difficult childhood living in foster homes with the belief that his parents had died. In his later years, he was re-united with his birth parents and family. Clarence himself was a family man who enjoyed a strong, close relationship with his wife and children.
In his early years as a champion bodybuilder, Clarence Ross inspired thousands of followers to embrace the healthy lifestyle through his emphasis on "strength in both body and mind." His photographs graced many covers and special informative and enriching articles appeared in more than fifty bodybuilding magazines published around the world, inspiring thousands to share in his enthusiasm by their acceptance of the sport as a personal challenge.
At the height of his fame, Hollywood beckoned. Among other roles, he was considered for the part of DC Comics hero Superman later played by the ill-fated George Reeves. He did perform in a 1949 Pete Smith Specialties/Joe McDoakes feature short film titled So You Want To Be a Muscleman: The Piano Mover, shown in theatres around the globe. He did not like the prospects of the Hollywood lifestyle and returned to his roots in Oakland.
Among his titles, Clarence Ross achieved the following … Mr. America (1945), Pro Mr. America (1946), Mr. USA (1948), Mr. North America (1949), and Pro Mr. Universe (1955). One of the classic photos of the era, provided by Bodybuilding historians David Gentle and George Coates, appeared in the UK Edition of "Health and Strength" and showed Mr. Ross and his peers, Bert Goodrich, Eric Pederson, Steve Reeves, Floyd Paige and Alan Stephan.
I first saw Clarence Ross as a guest poser in 1948 on the occasion of the IFBB Mr. Canada contest sponsored and produced by Ben and Joe Weider at Montreal’s Monument National. As a youngster of 14 years of age, I was accompanied by my father when we traveled from my home town of Sherbrooke, Quebec, specifically to see the Mr. Canada contest. When Clarence Ross stepped on the podium, I clearly remember as if it was yesterday, a sudden hush falling over the crowd. His impact on the fans was electric. As he gracefully moved from pose to pose, a crescendo of applause and cheers accompanied his every move until the audience stood in one collective cheer.
He leaves behind his lovely wife Lois, son Lance, daughter Darcy and stepson Rene.
Clarence Ross has left an indelible imprint on the sport and will always be remembered as THE KING OF BODYBUILDERS. The GREATS must never be forgotten.
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As a Special Tribute to this 2000 Hall of Famer, IFBBPRO.com is proud to display below some additional photographs of Clancy and a small sampling of the magazine covers that that he graced during his time with us.
7 Comments to “Clarence Ross”
Not only did Clancy Ross have a magnificant physique, he was striking handsome, every bit the equal of the more famous Steve Reeves, said by many to be the most handsome man to walk the face of the earth–certainly to walk the beach.
Thanks to Terry McConnell for helping us remember him.
Clarence Bass
By Clarence Bass on Aug 3, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Clancy,indeed was one of the true legends of our sport.
By William Moore on Aug 9, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Hi Lance! Your tribute to your father was really, really nice. I am your father’s first wife (Jacky’s) niece. Carol Ross’s cousin Peg. I remember when you were born….I can see you look alot like your father. (Both handsome men). I have some wonderful memories of Uncle Clancy and your own very sweet Mother having me to their home in San Lorenzo. I used to play with Rene….Your father was best man at my own parent’s wedding. Bob Dunn and Jacky’s sister Jerry Emery. I’m glad to “meet” you again. Thanks for the visit with Uncle Clancy ….Lovingly, Peg
By Peggy Sharon on Mar 27, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Hi Peg!
Thank you for your kind words. I have always held a great admiration for my dad and family. It is wonderful to be reacquainted with you.
Lance
;~)
By Lance Ross on May 19, 2009 at 7:56 pm
I want to take this opportunity to personally thank Terry McConnell for his selfless contribution in remembrance of my dad; thank you Terry!
By Lance Ross on May 19, 2009 at 7:58 pm
I met Clancy one time in 1952, and he was a great guy! I always thought he would have made a great Superman, with his rugged good looks and super body.
By Tom Dannecker on Sep 28, 2009 at 1:02 pm
? I SENT COMMENTS NONE SHOW?
By Lois Ross on May 13, 2010 at 12:23 pm