Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Arnold Schwarzenegger

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 9, 2026

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is an Austrian-American icon known for his achievements in bodybuilding, acting, and politics. Rising to prominence as a professional bodybuilder, he won multiple Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia titles. He transitioned to acting, becoming a major action film star in movies like "Terminator" and "Predator." Schwarzenegger then entered politics, serving as the 38th Governor of California from 2003 to 2011. His career showcases a unique blend of physical prowess, entertainment success, and political influence.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1977: Acknowledging Steroid Use

In 1977, Arnold Schwarzenegger acknowledged using performance-enhancing anabolic steroids while they were legal, stating that they helped maintain muscle size during strict dieting for contests.

1997: Fathered a Child with Housemaid

In 1997, Arnold Schwarzenegger fathered a child with their housemaid, which he later admitted to.

1999: Lawsuits over Steroid Use Allegations

In 1999, Arnold Schwarzenegger sued Willi Heepe, a German doctor, for predicting his early death due to steroid use, winning a libel judgment. He also sued and settled with Globe, a U.S. tabloid, over similar predictions.

2003: Press Attention to Gustav's Background During Gubernatorial Election

During the 2003 California gubernatorial recall election, in which Schwarzenegger was elected, Gustav Schwarzenegger's background received wide press attention.

2005: Relinquishing Executive Editor Role

In 2005, Arnold Schwarzenegger relinquished the executive editor role at Muscle & Fitness and Flex magazines after criticism over potential conflicts of interest due to decisions made by the governor's office concerning regulation of dietary supplements in California.

2005: Veto of Same-Sex Marriage Bill

In 2005, Arnold Schwarzenegger, as Governor of California, vetoed a bill that would have legalized same-sex marriage.

August 2006: Settlement of libel lawsuit

In August 2006, British television personality Anna Richardson settled a libel lawsuit against Arnold Schwarzenegger, his aide Sean Walsh, and his publicist Sheryl Main.

2006: Veto of Single-Payer Health Care Bill

In 2006, Arnold Schwarzenegger, as Governor of California, vetoed a bill that would have implemented a single-payer health care system.

2007: Veto of Same-Sex Marriage Bill

In 2007, Arnold Schwarzenegger, as Governor of California, vetoed another bill that would have legalized same-sex marriage.

2008: Veto of Single-Payer Health Care Bill

In 2008, Arnold Schwarzenegger, as Governor of California, vetoed another bill that would have implemented a single-payer health care system in California.

April 2010: Named one of the "worst governors"

In April 2010, the ethics watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington named Arnold Schwarzenegger one of the 11 "worst governors" in the United States due to various ethics issues.

May 17, 2011: Affair revealed

On May 17, 2011, The Los Angeles Times revealed that Arnold Schwarzenegger had fathered a son, Joseph, more than 14 years earlier with Mildred Patricia "Patty" Baena, an employee in their household. He confessed to his wife only after she confronted him with the information.

January 2017: Reaction to Trump's Remarks via Instagram

In January 2017, Arnold Schwarzenegger reacted to Donald Trump's remarks via Instagram, suggesting they switch jobs.

March 2017: Departure from "The New Celebrity Apprentice"

In March 2017, Arnold Schwarzenegger announced that he would not return for another season on The New Celebrity Apprentice following repeated criticisms from Donald Trump.

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2021: Video Address on Capitol Attack

In 2021, following the January 6 United States Capitol attack, Arnold Schwarzenegger posted a video address on social media comparing the insurrection to Nazi Germany's Kristallnacht and criticizing President Donald Trump.

2023: Revisited issue

In 2023, Arnold Schwarzenegger revisited allegations of sexual misconduct and stated that he was "totally wrong".

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January 17, 2024: Detained for Customs Violation

On January 17, 2024, Arnold Schwarzenegger was detained by German authorities in Munich for failing to declare an Audemars Piguet watch to customs. He was released after pre-paying potential taxes, and the watch was later auctioned off for charity.