Arnold Schwarzenegger, the renowned American actor and politician, recently shared his sentiments about his ex-wife Maria Shriver in an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Despite their divorce being finalized in 2021, Schwarzenegger admitted that he still harbours love for Shriver but does not miss being married to her.
The former couple, aged 75 and 67 respectively, parted ways in 2011 following the revelation that Schwarzenegger had fathered a child named Joseph Baena with their former household employee, Mildred Baena.
However, in the years since their separation, Schwarzenegger and Shriver have managed to build a strong co-parenting relationship focused on the well-being of their four children.
When asked if he missed the institution of marriage, Schwarzenegger replied with a definitive “No,” explaining that the initial stages of their separation were incredibly challenging.
However, he emphasized his contentment with his current romantic relationship, expressing pride and love for his girlfriend, Heather Milligan, a successful physical therapist.
Despite the end of their marriage, Schwarzenegger expressed enduring admiration for Shriver, with whom he spent 25 years of his life.
He described their friendship as close and highlighted their joint pride in raising their children. Despite the complexities surrounding their divorce, the couple has managed to come together for important family occasions, including Easter, Mother’s Day, Christmas, and birthdays.
Schwarzenegger even humorously suggested that they should be awarded an “Oscar” for their exceptional handling of the divorce, as their children display both the sweetness and kindness inherited from Shriver and the discipline and work ethic inherited from him.
Aside from discussing his personal life, Schwarzenegger also divulged his plans for the future, expressing a commitment to maintaining an active lifestyle and an ongoing acting career.
The 75-year-old icon intends to “stay on this side of the grass” and humorously stated his desire to “live forever.” Retirement does not seem to be in Schwarzenegger’s plans as he remains passionate and dedicated to his work.
Schwarzenegger and Shriver exchanged vows in 1986, nearly nine years after they initially crossed paths. They decided to separate in 2011, and their divorce was officially concluded in 2021.
Although the couple did not have a prenuptial agreement, the separation process reportedly proceeded smoothly, with joint custody of their children being agreed upon without any significant disputes.
At the time of their separation, their combined net worth was estimated to be approximately $400 million.
“Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”