Arnold Schwarzenegger, 76, has revealed he recently had a pacemaker fitted due to an irregular heartbeat caused by scar tissue from past open-heart surgeries. The actor has undergone three previous heart procedures, including valve replacements in 1997, 2018, and 2020 due to a congenital bicuspid aortic valve.
Arnold said the decision followed a checkup before his annual Arnold Sports Festival, where he struggled with 16-hour days. The long hours and fatigue made him realize it was time for action. “That’s life with a genetic heart issue. But you won’t hear me complaining,” he shared.
He underwent surgery last Monday in Cleveland and was already attending events by Friday. On his podcast Arnold’s Pump Club, he joked he’s “a little bit more of a machine” now, like his Terminator character. Though he’ll pause heavy gym training, he assured fans he’s recovering well and ready to film FUBAR Season 2 soon.
Schwarzenegger also opened up about breaking from his Austrian upbringing, which discouraged discussing health issues. He said sharing his story has helped others with similar conditions find courage. “You’re not alone,” he added. “If you’re putting something off out of fear, I hope I inspire you to listen to your doctors.”