Arnold Schwarzenegger has never been one to shy away from big questions. Known worldwide as a bodybuilding legend, Hollywood superstar, and former governor of California.
Schwarzenegger has spent decades reflecting on strength, discipline, success, and purpose. In a recent, deeply personal conversation with his longtime friend and fellow actor Danny DeVito for Interview Magazine.
Schwarzenegger turned his attention to one of humanity’s most profound and uncomfortable topics: what happens after we die.
Rather than offering comforting reassurances or traditional spiritual explanations, Schwarzenegger spoke with striking honesty and realism.
His perspective challenged widely held beliefs about the afterlife and revealed a deeply human fear—not of death itself, but of losing the richness and beauty of life.
A Frank View on the Afterlife
During the interview, Schwarzenegger made it clear that he is not convinced by the idea of heaven or a traditional afterlife. He described such concepts as comforting fantasies rather than proven realities.
Reflecting on a past conversation with radio host Howard Stern, Schwarzenegger recalled being asked what happens to people when they die.
His answer was blunt and unwavering: from his point of view, nothing physical remains beyond the grave. The body, as we know it, returns to the earth. Anyone who claims absolute certainty about something beyond that, he suggested, is speaking without real evidence.
While his words may sound harsh to some, Schwarzenegger was careful to distinguish between what is known and what remains a mystery. He openly admitted that he is not an expert on the soul, spirituality, or metaphysical ideas.
What he does know, he explained, is that the physical presence we recognize—the way we see, touch, and interact with one another—will not exist in the same way after death.
Danny DeVito’s Grounded Response
Danny DeVito, Schwarzenegger’s close friend and frequent collaborator, echoed this grounded perspective with a simple and sobering observation: “We deteriorate.”
The comment was not meant to be cruel or dismissive, but realistic. Aging and death are unavoidable biological processes, and pretending otherwise does not change the outcome.
Schwarzenegger agreed, adding that the idea of reuniting with loved ones in heaven may sound comforting, but it does not align with what he believes is the reality of human existence.
The Sadness of Letting Go
Despite his rational outlook, Schwarzenegger did not present himself as emotionally detached from death. On the contrary, he openly admitted that the idea of dying deeply troubles him—not because of fear of punishment or the unknown, but because of what will be lost.
He spoke passionately about how much he loves life. The simple pleasures—sitting with a friend, sharing a conversation, laughing, working out at the gym, cycling along the beach, traveling the world, and experiencing new cultures—are what give life meaning to him.
The thought that all of this will one day come to an end is what he finds truly heartbreaking.
Schwarzenegger emphasized that he does not feel comforted by death. Instead, he feels a sense of sadness knowing that every experience, no matter how joyful, is temporary. Life, in all its beauty and excitement, is something he does not want to leave behind.
Celebrating Life While It Lasts
Danny DeVito responded to Schwarzenegger’s emotional reflection with a powerful affirmation: “Life! It’s the best!”
That simple statement captured the essence of their conversation. Rather than focusing on what may or may not come after death, both men highlighted the importance of fully embracing life in the present moment.
Their exchange served as a reminder that the value of life lies in lived experiences, relationships, passions, and shared moments.
For Schwarzenegger, this philosophy has been evident throughout his life. From his early days as a bodybuilder in Austria to his rise as a Hollywood icon and political leader, he has consistently pushed himself to live intensely and purposefully.
A Catholic Upbringing and Evolving Faith
Schwarzenegger’s views on the afterlife may surprise some, especially given his religious background. He was raised in the Catholic Church and spent his youth attending church services, Catholic school, and studying religious teachings, including the Bible and catechism.
In a 2021 YouTube video, Schwarzenegger spoke openly about his upbringing and how it shaped his moral foundation. While his beliefs have evolved over time, he still values many of the principles he learned during his childhood—particularly the idea of service.
He recalled a phrase that has stayed with him since those early years: “a servant’s heart.” To Schwarzenegger, this concept means dedicating oneself to something larger than personal ambition or self-interest. It is about contributing to the greater good and helping others whenever possible.
Service Above Self
Schwarzenegger has repeatedly emphasized that true fulfillment comes not from power or fame, but from service. Drawing from his faith-based upbringing, he has applied this principle to both his political career and his public life.
In the same 2021 message, he expressed concern about the state of modern politics and leadership. He argued that what society needs most from elected officials is a genuine commitment to serving the public rather than pursuing personal gain or partisan advantage.
According to Schwarzenegger, leaders should strive to uphold higher ideals—the principles upon which nations are founded and the values that inspire respect around the world. This belief reflects his enduring commitment to civic responsibility, regardless of changing political landscapes.
Reconciling Faith and Reality
Schwarzenegger’s perspective represents a complex balance between faith, realism, and personal experience. While he does not embrace traditional beliefs about heaven or an afterlife, he has not abandoned the moral lessons instilled in him through religion.
Instead, he has reframed those lessons into a philosophy centered on action rather than expectation. Rather than focusing on rewards after death, he believes people should focus on how they live now—how they treat others, how they contribute to society, and how fully they experience life.
This approach does not dismiss spirituality altogether. Rather, it acknowledges uncertainty while emphasizing responsibility, gratitude, and presence in the here and now.
A Message That Resonates
Schwarzenegger’s candid reflections resonate with many people precisely because they are so honest. In a world where discussions about death are often avoided or softened, his willingness to confront the topic directly feels refreshing.
His message is not one of despair, but of appreciation. Life’s impermanence, he suggests, is exactly what makes it precious. Knowing that moments will not last forever gives them meaning and urgency.
Instead of relying on promises of reunion in an afterlife, Schwarzenegger encourages people to cherish their loved ones today, pursue their passions wholeheartedly, and make the most of every opportunity.
Living Fully Without Certainty
Ultimately, Schwarzenegger’s outlook can be summarized in a simple idea: even without certainty about what comes after death, life itself is extraordinary.
He does not claim to have all the answers, and he openly acknowledges the limits of human understanding. But within that uncertainty, he finds a powerful motivation—to live boldly, love deeply, and serve generously.
By focusing on what can be known and experienced, Schwarzenegger offers a philosophy grounded in realism and gratitude. His reflections remind us that life’s value is not diminished by its end, but defined by how fully it is lived.
Conclusion
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s conversation with Danny DeVito offers more than a discussion about death—it provides insight into how one of the world’s most recognizable figures understands life itself.
His rejection of comforting illusions about the afterlife is balanced by a profound appreciation for existence, connection, and purpose.
Rooted in a Catholic upbringing yet shaped by decades of lived experience, Schwarzenegger’s worldview emphasizes service, responsibility, and joy in the present moment. Whether one agrees with his conclusions or not, his honesty invites reflection.
In the end, his message is clear: life is short, unpredictable, and incredibly valuable. Rather than waiting for meaning beyond this world, Schwarzenegger urges us to find it here—now, together, while we can.
