Arnold Schwarzenegger: Terminator, robbing Hollywood, leaving Austria | Full Interview
Graham Bensinger・58 minutes read
Arnold Schwarzenegger rose from a challenging childhood in Austria to become a successful businessman, actor, and politician, driven by a hunger for success and a strong work ethic, showcasing resilience and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities. His journey from a humble upbringing to a multifaceted career demonstrates his determination, diversification beyond action roles, and success in various ventures like real estate, construction, and the creation of the movie "Twins" through investment in himself.
Insights
- Arnold Schwarzenegger's challenging upbringing fueled his drive for success and strong work ethic, leading him to pursue his dreams with determination and resilience, showcasing the transformative power of adversity.
- Schwarzenegger's transition from a bodybuilder to a successful businessman and actor, diversifying his career beyond action roles, highlights his strategic mindset and ability to leverage opportunities, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and foresight in achieving long-term success.
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Recent questions
How did Arnold Schwarzenegger's upbringing influence his success?
Arnold Schwarzenegger's humble upbringing in a poor household without luxuries like plumbing instilled in him a hunger for success and a strong work ethic. His father's tough approach, while lacking in compliments, fueled Arnold's drive to prove himself and succeed, pushing him to leave Austria and pursue his dreams. This challenging environment shaped Arnold's resilience and determination to overcome obstacles, ultimately contributing to his success in various fields.
What sparked Arnold Schwarzenegger's interest in moving to America?
A pivotal moment in Arnold Schwarzenegger's life was when he saw footage of America in school, sparking his desire to move there and pursue his dreams. This glimpse of the opportunities and lifestyle in America ignited a fire within Arnold, motivating him to leave Austria and embark on a journey towards achieving his goals. His fascination with the American way of life played a significant role in shaping his future endeavors and successes.
How did Arnold Schwarzenegger transition from bodybuilding to acting?
Arnold Schwarzenegger's transition from bodybuilding to acting was marked by a significant turning point in his career when he received a telegram from Joe Weider, a renowned publisher, inviting him to America for the Mr. Universe contest. This invitation opened doors for Arnold in the entertainment industry, leading him to pursue acting alongside his bodybuilding career. His charisma, determination, and unique background propelled him into the world of Hollywood, where he would later establish himself as a successful actor.
What motivated Arnold Schwarzenegger to diversify his acting roles?
Arnold Schwarzenegger was aware of the audience's expectations for him to continue in action roles but wanted to diversify his acting portfolio beyond just being an action hero. Despite his success in action movies, Arnold sought to showcase his comedic abilities and break away from being typecast. This desire to explore different genres and roles stemmed from his passion for challenging himself as an actor and expanding his range beyond the stereotypical action star image.
How did Arnold Schwarzenegger's interest in politics develop?
Arnold Schwarzenegger's interest in politics was sparked by President Richard Nixon, who suggested he run for governor during a meeting at the Nixon Library. This encounter planted the seed of political ambition in Arnold's mind, eventually leading him to pursue a career in public service. His admiration for President Nixon's political views and the encouragement he received from influential figures played a crucial role in shaping his decision to enter the political arena.
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Summary
00:00
Arnold Schwarzenegger: From Poverty to Prosperity
- Arnold Schwarzenegger grew up in a poor household without luxuries like plumbing, which instilled in him a hunger for success and a strong work ethic.
- His father's tough approach, while lacking in compliments, fueled Arnold's drive to prove himself and succeed, pushing him to leave Austria and pursue his dreams.
- Arnold's fascination with tanks stemmed from his childhood experiences with British soldiers in Austria, leading him to become a tank driver in the military.
- Despite his enthusiasm, Arnold had accidents with tanks, like driving one through a building due to a mishap with the gears, showcasing the challenges he faced.
- A pivotal moment in Arnold's life was when he saw footage of America in school, sparking his desire to move there and pursue his dreams, eventually leading him to bodybuilding.
- Getting a telegram from Joe Weider, a renowned publisher, inviting him to America for the Mr. Universe contest marked a significant turning point in Arnold's career.
- Arnold always felt a natural inclination towards business and making money, starting from a young age when he worked to buy his own things without relying on his parents.
- Arnold found success in real estate among various business ventures, emphasizing the importance of having a knack for it to excel in the field.
- Arnold's diverse business ventures, from owning a 747 to real estate, construction, and a mail order business, have been significant outside of his acting career.
- Arnold's journey from a humble upbringing to a successful businessman and actor showcases his resilience, drive, and ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
16:06
Arnold Schwarzenegger: From Action Hero to Comedic Star
- Arnold Schwarzenegger saved every dollar he made from seminars, exhibitions, and his mail order business to invest in real estate.
- He purchased a six-unit apartment building for $235,000-$240,000 and later sold it for double the price, making a profit of almost $200,000 in three years.
- Lucille Ball invited Schwarzenegger to appear on her show after seeing him on Merv Griffin, where he impressed with his personality and humor.
- Schwarzenegger struggled with understanding live TV during his appearance on Lucille Ball's show, Happy Anniversary and Goodbye, due to language barriers.
- Lucille Ball gave Schwarzenegger advice on breaking into Hollywood, emphasizing positivity and hard work, and supported him throughout his career.
- Initially, O.J. Simpson was cast as The Terminator, but Schwarzenegger convinced James Cameron to let him play the role by emphasizing the need for a machine-like portrayal.
- Schwarzenegger suggested a scene where The Terminator gets drunk, inspired by E.T., but James Cameron rejected the idea, stating machines don't get drunk.
- There was a disagreement between Schwarzenegger and Cameron over the iconic line "I'll be back," with Cameron insisting on the original wording.
- Schwarzenegger decided to take no salary for the movie "Twins" to break away from being typecast as an action star and showcase his comedic abilities.
- Schwarzenegger was aware of the audience's expectations for him to continue in action roles but wanted to diversify his acting portfolio beyond just being an action hero.
32:02
Arnold Schwarzenegger: From Movies to Politics
- Arnold Schwarzenegger invested in himself and convinced Ivan Reitman to work on a comedy project together, leading to the creation of the movie "Twins."
- The movie "Twins" had a historic deal where Arnold Schwarzenegger, Danny DeVito, and Ivan Reitman didn't take salaries but received a significant portion of the back end, resulting in a successful financial outcome.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger underwent heart surgery due to a valve problem, which he had been monitoring since his mother's similar issue.
- The initial heart surgery failed, leading to a risky second surgery within 24 hours, with a 60% chance of success.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger had a close relationship with President George H.W. Bush, who invited him to the White House and Camp David frequently.
- President George H.W. Bush supported Arnold Schwarzenegger's Great American Workout event at the White House, showcasing his passion for fitness.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger's interest in politics was sparked by President Richard Nixon, who suggested he run for governor during a meeting at the Nixon Library.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger later decided to run for governor, leading to a chance encounter with White House Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove, who had previously discussed the governorship with him.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger shared his admiration for President Nixon's political views during a spontaneous speech at an event, leading to positive feedback from Nixon.
- President Nixon later sent Arnold Schwarzenegger signed photographs from their meeting at the Nixon Library, showing his support for Schwarzenegger's potential political career.
48:29
Arnold Schwarzenegger: From Actor to Governor
- Economic downturns occurred after the governor's election, leading to mounting anger in California.
- The Lights Went Out in California, causing further dissatisfaction among the populace.
- A recall election was initiated due to the growing discontent, prompting Arnold Schwarzenegger to consider running for governor.
- Karl Rove initially dismissed the possibility of a recall, but Arnold sensed the public's desire for change.
- Arnold met Condoleezza Rice, who was suggested as a formidable candidate for 2006, but Arnold decided to run earlier.
- Arnold announced his candidacy on Jay Leno's show, leading to his election as governor within two months.
- Despite initial reluctance from his wife Maria, Arnold's determination to run for governor prevailed.
- Arnold faced unexpected challenges as governor, including a severe budget deficit and managing multiple wildfires.
- Arnold lost a special election but later won the governorship again, experiencing both triumphs and setbacks.
- The Arnold Sports Festival expanded globally, promoting fitness and nutrition awareness across continents.
01:05:03
"Admiring Agility in Sports Performances"
- Observing various sports activities, including boxing, jumping rope, and pole dancing, admiring the agility and speed of the participants, expressing interest and admiration for their skills, and encouraging them to continue their impressive performances.
