Henri Christophe Dickerson
August 25, 1939 – December 23, 2021
The first African-American AAU Mr. America
The first openly gay winner of the IFBB Mr. Olympia tiles.
Henri Christophe Dickerson, born on August 25, 1939, in Montgomery, Alabama, was the youngest of triplets. His remarkable journey began in a family where he would become the first to pursue higher education. His mother, Mahala Ashley Dickerson, was a prominent lawyer and a staunch advocate for civil rights, particularly focused on women and minorities.
Henri’s early life in Montgomery laid the foundation for his future achievements, which would ultimately lead him to become a celebrated figure in the world of competitive bodybuilding.
Dickerson’s remarkable journey in competitive bodybuilding commenced in 1965 when he made his debut, securing an impressive third place at the Mr. Long Beach competition. His relentless dedication and pursuit of excellence propelled him to turn professional in 1973, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Over the years, Dickerson’s commitment to the sport led him to amass an impressive collection of 15 professional bodybuilding titles across four prestigious organizations, solidifying his status as one of the world’s most titled bodybuilders.
During the 1980s, Dickerson embarked on a rigorous training regimen alongside former Mr. Universe Bill Pearl, further honing his physique and skills on the posing dais. His dedication and talent paid off when he achieved the historic distinction of being the first African-American to claim the title of AAU Mr. America.
Dickerson’s legacy extended beyond domestic competitions; he made history as the first openly gay athlete to secure victory in the IFBB Mr. Olympia contest, a prestigious accomplishment that underscored his prowess in the realm of professional bodybuilding
.During the late 1970s, Dickerson openly embraced his identity as a gay individual, a significant personal journey that reflected his courage and authenticity. In 1982, he achieved a groundbreaking milestone in the world of bodybuilding by securing victory in the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Mr. Olympia contest. This historic triumph marked Dickerson as the first openly gay man at the age of 43 the oldest competitor to attain this prestigious title, setting a powerful example of inclusion and diversity in the realm of competitive bodybuilding.
Remarkably, Dickerson’s achievements extended to both the Mr. Olympia and Masters Olympia competitions, an honor he shared with only one other bodybuilder, Dexter Jackson.
Throughout his career, Dickerson accumulated numerous accolades and awards, cementing his status as an iconic figure in the world of bodybuilding. He retired after an impressive victory in the 50+ division at the 1994 Masters Olympia, an event that marked the culmination of his extraordinary journey.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the sport, Henri Christophe Dickerson was rightfully inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in the year 2000. Even after retirement, he remained actively engaged in the bodybuilding community, conducting seminars, training, and offering guidance to aspiring athletes.
In addition to his outstanding athletic accomplishments, Dickerson ventured into physique modeling during the 1960s. His bold and iconic work with renowned photographer Jim French, particularly during the 1970s, is celebrated for its artistry and contribution to the genre.
Tragically, on December 23, 2021, at the age of 82, Henri Christophe Dickerson passed away due to heart failure, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and shape the world of professional bodybuilding.
Henri Christophe Dickerson’s legacy lives on in the world of bodybuilding and sports. While there may not be specific monuments or memorials dedicated to him, his impact on the sport and the LGBTQ+ community is significant. Here are some aspects of his legacy and things done in his honor:
- Breaking Barriers: Henri Christophe Dickerson was the first openly gay man to win the IFBB Mr. Olympia contest. His victory in 1982 paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in bodybuilding and sports.
- Inspiration: Dickerson’s achievements continue to inspire aspiring bodybuilders, especially those from underrepresented communities. He proved that with dedication and hard work, anyone can excel in the sport.
- LGBTQ+ Representation: Dickerson’s coming out as gay during the late 1970s was a courageous step in a time when LGBTQ+ individuals often faced discrimination and prejudice. His openness contributed to greater acceptance and representation in sports.
- Hall of Fame Induction: Henri Christophe Dickerson was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in 2000, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport of bodybuilding.
- LGBTQ+ Inclusivity: Dickerson’s success helped promote inclusivity and diversity within the bodybuilding community. His legacy encourages LGBTQ+ athletes to pursue their dreams and passions.
- Educational Initiatives: Organizations and individuals in the bodybuilding and LGBTQ+ communities may offer educational programs and scholarships in his honor to support future generations of athletes.
While there may not be physical monuments or institutions dedicated to Henri Christophe Dickerson, his legacy remains alive through his impact on the sport and the LGBTQ+ community, serving as an inspiration for generations to come.
Here is a list of Henri Christophe Dickerson’s bodybuilding titles in chronological order:
- 1966 Mr. North America – AAU, 2nd
- 1966 Mr. New York State – AAU, Overall Winner
- 1966 Mr. Eastern America – AAU, Overall Winner
- 1966 Mr. Atlantic Coast – AAU, Overall Winner
- 1966 Junior Mr. USA – AAU, Most Muscular, 1st
- 1966 Junior Mr. USA – AAU, Winner
- 1967 Mr. California – AAU, Winner
- 1967 Mr. America – AAU, Most Muscular, 4th
- 1967 Mr. America – AAU, 6th
- 1967 Junior Mr. America – AAU, Most Muscular, 5th
- 1967 Junior Mr. America – AAU, 4th
- 1968 Mr. USA – AAU, Most Muscular, 2nd
- 1968 Mr. USA – AAU, Winner
- 1968 Mr. America – AAU, Most Muscular, 3rd
- 1968 Mr. America – AAU, 3rd
- 1968 Junior Mr. America – AAU, 3rd
- 1969 Mr. America – AAU, 2nd
- 1969 Junior Mr. America – AAU, 2nd
- 1970 Universe – NABBA, Short, 1st
- 1970 Mr. America – AAU, Most Muscular, 1st
- 1970 Mr. America – AAU, Winner
- 1970 Junior Mr. America – AAU, Most Muscular, 1st
- 1970 Junior Mr. America – AAU, Winner
- 1971 Universe – NABBA, Short, 1st
- 1973 Universe – NABBA, Short, 1st
- 1973 Universe – NABBA, Overall Winner
- 1973 Pro Mr. America – WBBG, Winner
- 1974 Universe – Pro – NABBA, Short, 1st
- 1974 Universe – Pro – NABBA, Overall Winner
- 1975 World Championships – WBBG, 2nd
- 1975 Universe – Pro – PBBA, 2nd
- 1976 Universe – Pro – NABBA, Short, 2nd
- 1976 Universe – Pro – NABBA, 3rd
- 1976 Olympus – WBBG, 4th
- 1979 Mr. Olympia – IFBB, Lightweight, 4th
- 1979 Grand Prix Vancouver – IFBB, 2nd
- 1979 Canada Pro Cup – IFBB, Winner
- 1979 Canada Diamond Pro Cup – IFBB, 2nd
- 1980 Pittsburgh Pro Invitational – IFBB, 2nd
- 1980 Mr. Olympia – IFBB, 2nd
- 1980 Night of Champions – IFBB, Winner
- 1980 Grand Prix New York – IFBB, Winner
- 1980 Grand Prix Miami – IFBB, Winner
- 1980 Grand Prix Louisiana – IFBB, 2nd
- 1980 Grand Prix California – IFBB, Winner
- 1980 Florida Pro Invitational – IFBB, Winner
- 1980 Canada Pro Cup – IFBB, Winner
- 1981 Professional World Cup – IFBB, 2nd
- 1981 Mr. Olympia – IFBB, 2nd
- 1981 Night of Champions – IFBB, Winner
- 1981 Grand Prix World Cup – IFBB, 2nd
- 1981 Grand Prix Washington – IFBB, Winner
- 1981 Grand Prix New York – IFBB, Winner
- 1981 Grand Prix New England – IFBB, 2nd
- 1981 Grand Prix Louisiana – IFBB, Winner
- 1981 Grand Prix California – IFBB, Winner
- 1982 Mr. Olympia – IFBB, Winner
- 1984 Mr. Olympia – IFBB, 11th
- 1990 Arnold Classic – IFBB, 8th
- 1994 Masters Olympia – IFBB, Overall, 4th
These achievements showcase Henri Christophe Dickerson’s remarkable career as a competitive bodybuilder.