Tapio Rautavaara

About

Finnish singer, athlete, and actor who was widely considered to be one of the most beloved singers in all of Finland. Some of his best-known songs include "Isoisän olkihattu," "Reppu ja reissumies," and "Korttipakka ." He starred in numerous films throughout his career, including We Come During Spring and X-Paroni. 

Before Fame

He did not receive a formal education beyond the elementary level. He worked numerous jobs throughout his childhood including as a newspaper boy, roadworker, lumberjack and storeman at a co-operative mill by the time the Finnish Winter War broke out in 1939. He fulfilled his national military service in the Finnish Navy in the mid-1930s.

Trivia

Prior to becoming a celebrated singer and actor, he had a successful athletic career as a javelin thrower and archer. During that time, he earned carer achievements such as a European bronze medal, an Olympic gold medal, and five national titles.

Family Life

He was born to parents Henrik Kerttula and Hilda Rautavaara. He and his wife, Liisa Handell, shared three children named Leena, Irma, and Marja.

Associated With

He was considered for the role of Tarzan after Johnny Weissmuller resigned from acting.