When you think of Joe Manganiello, the first image that comes to mind is a beautiful shirtless hunk, am I right? That’s what we thought too, when we featured him on the cover of Maniac’s The Men Issue back in 2012; however, we quickly learned that he is far more than just a pretty face (and body)! Not only intelligent, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, he is also extremely family oriented, approaching his latest business venture, a documentary, in partnership with his brother, Nick Manganiello. If these facts aren’t enough to make you swoon, he hasn’t let his fame taint his values. Just recently Maganiello made the commitment to donate the proceeds of his documentary screening to assist in rebuilding landmarks essential to Pittsburgh’s culture.
Lets start from the beginning… Joe Manganiello’s newest film steps behind the curtains of infamous Dallas male strip club “La Bare.” The documentary focuses not on his shirtless bod, but instead on other men’s, and the personalities hidden behind their gorgeous facades. Manganiello not only stars in the documentary but is also the co-creator, producer and director, alongside his brother Nick.
Unlike most films, “La Bare’s” impact extends far beyond the final scene. Although Manganiello is currently a California-residing movie star – the perfect location for him to show off those abs of steel – he refuses to abandon his origins: born and raised in Pittsburgh, his heart resides in the steel city. When growing up, the Manganiello brothers loved visiting the Denis Theatre of Mount Lebanon and the Hollywood Theatre of Dormont to watch the latest blockbusters. In the past five years, theatres like these have struggled tremendously, many even closing down due to the pressure to switch to the costly digital system. Attempting to reverse this vicious cycle, the Manganiello Brothers determined to host a private screening, all proceeds benefitting the rebuilding and re-opening of these historic theatres. The screening itself was held at the Hollywood Theatre of Dormont, the events goal set at 75,000 dollars.
