Arnold Schwarzenegger hospitalized
Arnold Schwarzenegger — famed actor, former California governor, and bodybuilding legend — revealed that he recently underwent surgery to have a pacemaker implanted. The device marks another step in his decades-long journey of managing heart-related health issues.
He shared the news on his Arnold’s Pump Club podcast, explaining that although he grew up in Austria where health matters were kept private, he now chooses to speak openly. According to Schwarzenegger, being transparent has encouraged others with similar conditions, particularly those born with a bicuspid aortic valve like him.
“Going against my instinct and sharing helps people,” he said, noting that many listeners have written to thank him for inspiring them to face their own medical challenges.
Schwarzenegger’s heart troubles date back nearly three decades. In 1997, he underwent his first open-heart surgery to replace a defective aortic valve. That procedure allowed him to continue pursuing his demanding careers in politics and film.
In 2018, a planned valve replacement became life-threatening when complications forced emergency open-heart surgery. He recovered quickly and returned to acting, even filming Terminator: Dark Fate soon after. Two years later, in 2020, he needed yet another valve replacement, highlighting the seriousness of his condition.
His latest operation involved implanting a pacemaker to stabilize heartbeat irregularities caused by scar tissue from prior surgeries. Doctors advised the procedure as a precaution against future complications, a recommendation Schwarzenegger said he was wise to follow.
Fans and health advocates praised his openness, noting that his willingness to share breaks stigma around serious health struggles. Despite these challenges, Schwarzenegger continues to embody resilience, showing that real strength lies not just in physical power but in perseverance, honesty, and prioritizing health.
