From Barbados to the world: Earl Maynard at 90 reflects on Independence, success, and giving back

Former Mr Universe, professional wrestler and actor Earl Maynard reflects on the journey that took him from the small island of Barbados to the world stage, and how his roots continue to guide him. As he turns 90, he talks to Barbados TODAY’s Lauryn Escamilla.

“I left Barbados at 17 and a half with $25 in my pocket and a one-way ticket to England,” Maynard recalls. “My goal was if I ever became successful, I would always want to come back and live in Barbados when I got older.” His ambition never wavered, despite travelling the globe, building an acting career in Hollywood action films, and winning bodybuilding competitions across England and the US.

Maynard’s Hollywood story is nothing short of cinematic. Speaking of filming in Israel, he remembers: “I loved Israel. And the scene… before my scene actually started, they were talking, I was doing rehearsals. Boom, up, much, not, stuff, boom, head, all kinds of stuff.”

On Circle of Iron (1978), a martial arts fantasy film also known as The Silent Flute, he recounts tense moments on set, where director Richard Moore wanted him to be beaten immediately by star David Carradine. “I put David over, made him look like a world champion. The producer came behind me, big hug on my shoulder, and said: ‘Earl, you did a fantastic job in the film.’” That professionalism earned him an unexpected bonus of US$16 000 (BDS$32 000).

Maynard’s achievements extend far beyond the silver screen. He proudly assisted fellow Barbadians abroad, helping them secure employment in Bermuda and making connections they could never have achieved on their own.

“I’m happy with the things I’ve accomplished… and I give God thanks because I always put God first,” he says.

Maynard emphasises resilience and gratitude. “Every day above the ground is a good day… I have a wonderful wife who loves me, and that is a very important part.”

He also encourages young people to value education alongside ambition: “Education first. If you are an athlete… you can get an injury. It may hurt your career, but you’re going to fall back on education. Then choose the path where you want to excel and listen to people with experience.”

For Maynard, Independence is not only a celebration of national freedom but also a personal reminder of the power of dreams rooted in one’s homeland.

“No matter where I travelled, I never forgot Barbados. The Independence of our country inspires me to keep striving, not just for myself, but to create opportunities and open doors for others back home,” he says.

Maynard’s story is a vivid reminder of the Independence spirit: the courage to leave home, the determination to succeed, and the commitment to uplift others. This week, as Barbadians reflect on their nation’s journey, his life illustrates how individual ambition and national pride can go hand in hand.

On Friday, as he marks his 90th birthday, Earl Maynard is toasting dual milestones of his life and his nation’s freedom.

(LE)