Netflix bodybuilding star died after collapsing on treadmill

Vittorio Pirbazari had only just returned to the gym after an injury.

Actor Vittorio Pirbazari known for his role in Netflix’s Dogs of Berlin, has tragically passed away after collapsing while running on a treadmill at a gym.

His death was announced by actor and filmmaker Said Ibrahim on Instagram, though official details are yet to be confirmed, reports the Mirror.

Just days before his passing, 44-year-old Vittorio had shared a selfie of his physique, reflecting on his return to the gym after recovering from a severe pectoral muscle tear.

Earlier this year, he also survived a near-fatal car accident that left him with a fractured vertebra, tissue damage, and leg injuries requiring stitches.

Despite these setbacks, he resumed training on March 30, a day before his death, focusing on leg workouts and treadmill intervals. In a post, he expressed determination to regain his fitness, acknowledging his injuries but remaining optimistic.

He shared: "My current form after 12 weeks without exercise or much exercise. Of course, it's no comparison to before, but I'm on the right track given the circumstances.

"Unfortunately, I've put on a lot of muscle, but that'll all come back when I can get going again. I'm happy to be back in the gym at all and am focusing entirely on leg training and cardio. I'm trying intervals on the treadmill right now, but since my legs aren't 100% healed yet, I'm taking it slowly."

Vittorio leaves behind his girlfriend and young son, born in 2020.

Fans have since flooded his Instagram with tributes, mourning the loss of the fitness influencer who first gained fame as part of the Hardgainer Crew on YouTube, where he amassed over 200,000 subscribers.

Though he stepped away from YouTube in recent years, he continued to pursue acting, with his Dogs of Berlin role gaining viral recognition.