21 Video Game Characters Who Were Inspired By Real-Life Celebs (6 of 9)

Mad Dog and Scorpion (Contra) — Arnold Schwartzenegger and Sylvester Stallone

In the action-packed world of Contra, where bullets fly and explosions abound, two characters stand out as epitomes of cinematic machismo: Bill “Mad Dog” Rizer and Lance “Scorpion” Bean. The striking resemblances to Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, respectively, are not a coincidence. These pixelated warriors exude the toughness and grit of their real-life inspirations. With bulging muscles and steely gazes, they charge into battle, guns blazing, like digital incarnations of ’80s action heroes. Just imagine Schwarzenegger and Stallone teaming up in a video game, blasting through waves of enemies with their signature one-liners and unstoppable firepower. It would be the ultimate nostalgic thrill ride that paid homage to the golden age of action cinema.

Dee Jay (Street Fighter) — Billy Blanks

Dee Jay, the flamboyant kickboxing champion from Street Fighter, with his infectious energy and lightning-fast footwork, is a digital echo of fitness guru Billy Blanks. Both Dee Jay and Blanks move with an almost musical rhythm, their attacks are a flurry of kicks and punches delivered with a smile. Dee Jay’s signature “Windmill Kick” might be a tad more gravity-defying than anything Blanks teaches in his Tae Bo workouts, but the enthusiasm is undeniable. Of course, Dee Jay prefers flamboyant showmanship during his fights, while Blanks keeps it more motivational (though rumors persist of a hidden sequined unitard beneath his workout gear).