Arnold Schwarzenegger, legendary bodybuilder, actor, and former California governor, revealed he recently had a pacemaker fitted following years of heart-related health challenges. The announcement came during his Arnold’s Pump Club podcast, where he openly discussed his medical journey despite growing up in Austria, where such matters were kept private.

He explained that sharing his experiences has encouraged others with similar conditions, particularly those born with a bicuspid aortic valve, as he was. “Going against my instinct and being transparent helps people,” he said, noting that many had written to him about how his openness gave them courage.

Schwarzenegger’s history with heart issues dates back decades. In 1997, he underwent his first open-heart surgery to replace a defective aortic valve. The procedure was successful and allowed him to continue his demanding career.

In 2018, a less invasive procedure turned critical, requiring emergency open-heart surgery. That setback occurred just before the filming of Terminator: Dark Fate, yet he returned to work shortly after recovering.

Another surgery followed in 2020, when he had another valve replacement. These repeated procedures highlighted the seriousness of his condition and the ongoing vigilance required to manage it.

The most recent operation added a pacemaker to regulate heartbeat irregularities caused by scar tissue from previous surgeries. Doctors advised the intervention to prevent complications, and Schwarzenegger emphasized the importance of listening to medical advice.

His candid approach to health has been widely praised. By breaking cultural taboos and stigma surrounding medical conditions, the action star has encouraged others to seek treatment and monitor their health.

Despite his struggles, Schwarzenegger continues to inspire, balancing his iconic legacy as the “Terminator” with a message of resilience, transparency, and the importance of prioritizing health.