Christopher Walken is a name that needs no introduction. The American actor has made a name for himself with his unique acting style and memorable performances in Hollywood movies. However, few people know that before he became an actor, Walken was a lion tamer!

Walken was born in Queens, New York, in 1943, and came from a performing arts family.

His mother was a Scottish dancer, while his father was a baker. Walken was trained in acting and dancing as he displayed a strong interest in the performing arts from a young age. But even as a small child, he was fascinated by animals, particularly lions. At the age of 16, Walken left his high school and joined a travelling circus. The lions and tigers in the circus captivated him, and he soon discovered a flair for handling and training them. In the ensuing years, Walken participated in numerous circuses and stage productions all throughout the nation as a lion trainer.

Walken's job as a lion tamer was dangerous and required immense skill and courage.

He would only carry a whip and a chair into the lion's den. The chair was intended to confuse the lion rather than hurt it. Walken would place the chair in front of the lion's face, confusing it and making it uncertain of where to launch an attack. Walken and the lion communicated with each other using the whip.

Walken enjoyed every second of his work as a lion trainer despite the risks involved. He spent hours researching the creatures' behaviours and behaviour since he was so fascinated by them. He gained their trust by learning how to speak with them.

But Walken's time as a lion trainer was brief. He suffered injuries in 1963 while performing after a lion charged at him.

Walken realised he needed to find a safer career even if the accident was not life-threatening. At that point, he started acting. Walken's career in Hollywood began in the 1970s, and he immediately established a reputation for himself thanks to his distinctive performances and fashion sense. He starred in "The Deer Hunter" in 1978, which earned him an Oscar Award for Best Supporting Actor, and has subsequently acted in a large number of other motion pictures and television programmes.

Finally, Christopher Walken's transformation from a lion trainer to one of Hollywood's most recognisable actors is a monument to his daring, talent, and tenacity. Although his time as a lion tamer was brief, it had a big impact on how he was and how much he loved animals. Everyone who wishes to follow their passion and never give up on their aspirations might find inspiration in Walken's life. ‍