Arnold Schwarzenegger Would’ve Never Become Governor Without Maria Shriver

While many American celebs have crossed over to politics, only a handful have succeeded in actually attaining a seat. Arnold Schwarzenegger made the cut and served as the Governor of California for not one, but two terms, serving from 2003 to 2011. By the actor’s side was his then-wife, Maria Shriver, who was highly suited for her role as California’s first lady.

Shriver came from a long line of politicians, with her father serving as the former U.S. Ambassador to France, while her uncle was Former President John F. Kennedy. In an interview with O (via Oprah.com), it’s noted that she intentionally turned away from politics despite her heritage and chose a career in journalism instead. However, Schwarzenegger’s former wife took an active role in his campaign when he decided to run for governor — even though Shriver initially disagreed with his intentions.  

However, Schwarzenegger adamantly refused to pursue the governorship unless Shriver was fully on board with the idea. In the Netflix docuseries “Arnold,” it was revealed that her approval came on the morning of “The Tonight Show” taping, during which he announced his candidacy, when Shriver slipped a note under his door that read: “In case you decide to run, here’s what I would say and here’s if you decide not to run what I would say,” (via Page Six). Shriver’s more liberal, and crucially female, viewpoint helped shape Schwarzenegger’s views on policies, as a Republican himself, essentially giving him a view of both sides during his two terms.