Arnold Schwarzenegger

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Arnold Schwarzenegger was born on July 30, 1947 in Graz, Austria. His small hometown offered little excitement, so he began bodybuilding at an early age. At age 20, he captured his first Mr. Universe title, gaining international fame as one of the world's greatest bodybuilders. He would go on to win 12 more titles.

In 1970, Schwarzenegger decided to try his hand at acting in America. He made his debut in 'Hercules in New York', a campy, forgettable comedy. In 1977, Schwarzenegger appeared in the documentary 'Pumping Iron', and thus became known for his immense muscles and charismatic, though at times hostile, presence.

Following 'Pumping Iron', he waded through a few bit parts in various films before landing the title character in 'Conan the Barbarian' in 1982. The ideal Schwarzenegger role got him even wider recognition, particularly in America. But it wasn't until his role in 1984's 'The Terminator' that Schwarzenegger got officially welcomed to international stardom. Already recognisable from Conan, Schwarzenegger became a household name with James Cameron's monster low-budget hit. The Terminator opened the door to a slew of action films such as 'Commando' and 'Predator', as well as comedies such as 'Twins' and 'Kindergarten Cop'.

In 1991, he re-teamed with James Cameron for the massive sequel 'T2 Judgment Day', which to date is the 14th-highest grossing film ever, as well as the third-highest grossing sequel (around then eclipsed only by 'The Empire Strikes Back' and 'The Lost World'). Schwarzenegger also made 'True Lies' and 'T2:3D Battle Across Time' with Cameron.

In 2003, he reprised his role as the protective Terminator in the blockbuster movie 'T3 Rise of the Machines', directed by Jonathan Mostow and with an all new cast including Kristanna Loken (T-X), Nick Stahl (John Connor) and Claire Danes (Kate Brewster). This was also his last movie upon his new career as Governor of the State of California.

He is one of the most marketable and successful actors in Hollywood. Schwarzenegger is the father of four children. He is married to journalist and Kennedy niece Maria Shriver.

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