Roland was born on March 30, 1968 in Vienna, Austria. He spent his childhood in Vienna, where he enjoyed swimming and playing soccer. At the early age of 15 decided he wanted to become a bodybuilder. From that day on, Roland dedicated his life to becoming his very best. While training, Roland continued schooling and graduated from college with a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. Roland went on to compete in the European National Bodybuilding Championshipsand won the title of 'Mr. Austria'. But he knew his dream of becoming a well-known bodybuilder could not be fully attained by staying in his homeland. In 1995, Roland came to the U.S. to pursue a better life with greater opportunity. Arriving with only $500 and no place to stay, he never gave up his dreams. After a few short visits to California, and a one year stay in Florida, Roland decided to make the United States his home permanently. The following year all the hard work paid off when he joined the Professional ranks and was signed to represent the leader in health and fitness, Joe Weider.


Frequently noted for the similarity of his appearance and accent to a younger Arnold Schwarzenegger, which was instrumental in his casting as "T-800" in the film Terminator Salvation (2009).