Austria’s biggest bodybuilder became the biggest star in Hollywood.
Arnold Schwarzenegger has had a remarkable journey, from a bodybuilder to a Hollywood superstar to the Governor of California. As he celebrates his 76th birthday, let’s explore some intriguing facts about his life and career.
1. Schwarzenegger went AWOL in the Austrian military.
Before achieving fame, Schwarzenegger served in the Austrian Army. During his time in the military, he went absent without leave to participate in a bodybuilding competition, resulting in a seven-day stint in military prison.
2. He also learned how to drive a tank.
While serving in the Austrian military, Schwarzenegger received training on operating a tank. He later acquired a tank of his own and used it to offer rides to disadvantaged youth as a reward for their hard work in school.
3. Schwarzenegger used psychological warfare to defeat his bodybuilding opponents.
Schwarzenegger not only relied on his impressive physique but also employed psychological tactics to gain an edge over his competitors. By playing mind games and making his opponents self-conscious, he successfully disrupted their confidence during bodybuilding competitions.
4. He once appeared on The New Dating Game.
Before his acting career took off, Schwarzenegger appeared as a contestant on The New Dating Game in 1973. The show allowed men and women to choose a potential partner based on their answers to questions.
5. Schwarzenegger was already a millionaire before he got into acting.
While pursuing his bodybuilding career, Schwarzenegger made wise investments in California real estate, which made him a millionaire before he even entered the world of acting.
6. Mark Hamill told him to lose his accent.
Schwarzenegger sought advice from Mark Hamill, known for his role as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, on how to succeed in acting. Hamill advised him to lose his accent and change his last name. However, Schwarzenegger chose to embrace his accent, considering it a unique asset in Hollywood.
7. Schwarzenegger almost starred in a Hans and Franz musical.
Schwarzenegger showed a sense of humor about the SNL characters Hans and Franz, expressing interest in appearing in a Hans and Franz movie musical. Unfortunately, the film was never made, but scenes from the script were performed on a podcast in 2023.
8. His childhood home is now a museum.
Schwarzenegger’s childhood residence in Thal, Austria, has been transformed into a museum. Visitors can explore his first-floor flat and view personal items, including his old bed, weightlifting equipment, and even a motorcycle from The Terminator.
9. Schwarzenegger directed a Christmas movie.
Although not primarily known as a director, Schwarzenegger directed an episode of Tales From the Crypt and a Christmas film titled Christmas in Connecticut. He embraced the opportunity to explore his directing skills and expand his creative endeavors.
10. Schwarzenegger will be president (in a movie).
While Schwarzenegger, as a foreign-born citizen, cannot run for the U.S. presidency, he will portray the role of the President of the United States in the movie Kung Fury 2. This exciting project allows him to fulfill his on-screen presidential aspirations.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s journey from bodybuilder to Hollywood icon to politician is filled with surprising twists and achievements. As he continues to entertain audiences worldwide, his legacy remains an inspiration to many. Happy birthday, Arnold Schwarzenegger!