Gladys Portugues is a talented athlete and performer known for her impressive bodybuilding career and roles in various films and television shows.
She twice reached the top 10 of the Ms. fitness competition. Olympia is prestigious and has inspired many people with her dedication and hard work in this sport.
In addition to her success in the bodybuilding field, she is also known for her marriage to Belgian actor and boxer Jean-Claude Van Damme.
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- Full name: Gladys Portugues
- Stage name: Gladys Portugal
- Date of birth: September 30, 1957
- Age: 67 years old
- Place of birth: Manhattan, New York, USA
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Professional bodybuilder
- Height: 1.65m
- Parents: Portuguese grandparents
- Siblings: unknown
- Spouse: Jean-Claude Van Damme (d. 1987–1992) and Jean-Claude Van Damme (d. 1999)
- Children: Bianca Bree, Kristopher Van Varenberg
- Relationship: Married
- Net worth: 6 million USD
Early life and education
Gladys Portugues was born on September 30, 1957 in Manhattan, New York, United States.
She was raised by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Portugues. Although she may have had siblings growing up, their details are unknown to the media.
Gladys Portugues attended the High School of Art and Design, where she demonstrated her talent and passion for art from an early age.
After completing her high school education, she pursued a career in the entertainment industry, capitalizing on her artistic abilities and Puerto Rican heritage.
Although Gladys Portugues’ religion is not public, her cultural identity as a Puerto Rican American has been integral to her personal and professional life.
Career
Gladys Portugues is a true pioneer in women’s fitness and entertainment.
A former American female professional bodybuilder, she left an indelible mark on the industry, demonstrating her exceptional strength, dedication and sportsmanship.
Portugues’ bodybuilding career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport. She twice reached the top 10 in the Ms. Olympia, an achievement that helped cement her position as one of the most accomplished female bodybuilders of her time.
Her fierce determination and impressive physique have earned her widespread recognition and respect in the fitness community.
However, the Portuguese’s talent extends beyond the field of bodybuilding. She transitioned seamlessly into the world of acting, appearing in several notable films, including “It’s Alive III: Island of the Alive,” “The Morning After,” and “Pumping Iron II: The Women.”
However, her most notable role was in the documentary “Jean-Claude Van Damme: Behind Closed Doors,” where she became known for her relationship with the Belgian actor and boxer, whom She was married twice.
Portugues’ versatility and ability to captivate audiences on both the competitive stage and the silver screen have cemented her legacy as a truly multifaceted performer.
Social Media
- Instagram name:@officialgp57
Personal life
The marital journey of Gladys Portugues and Jean-Claude Van Damme is captivating and unique. The couple first married in 1987, committing to marriage five years later in 1992. Before separating, they had two children, Biancaca Bree and Kristopher Van Varenberg.
However, their story did not end there. Motivated by a deep connection and a desire to give their relationship another chance, Gladys and Jean–Claude remarried in 1999, strengthening their relationship once again.
Since their second marriage, the couple has continued to weather the ups and downs of their relationship, overcoming the challenges and complications of being in the public eye.
Net worth
Gladys Portugues’s reported net worth is $6 million.
Her main source of wealth is her bodybuilding career, which has spanned several decades and earned her many awards and championships.
As a professional bodybuilder, Portugues has built a reputation for her dedication, discipline, and impressive physique, which has made her a sought-after figure in the industry.