76-year-old Arnold Schwarzenegger has achieved success in three different professions. The Austrian Oak won seven Mr. Olmypia titles and helped diminish the taboos surrounding the sport. In the 1980s, Schwarzenegger conquered Hollywood and became a box-office juggernaut. Finally, he served as the Governor of California from 2003 through 2011 before returning to acting.

Despite achieving so much, the bodybuilding legend never acknowledged himself as a self-made man. However, at a glance, the 76-year-old’s extraordinary life might give the impression that he achieved it all himself. So, the Terminator actor often reiterates his position on the matter. Arnie spoke about it again after a fan posted on social media appreciating the former governor.

Arnold Schwarzenegger loves his fans

Besides excelling in three different careers, Arnold Schwarzenegger is also a bestselling author. His two editions of the Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding are legendary books in the bodybuilding and fitness communities. Total Recall: My Unbelievably True Life Story is also among the most popular autobiographies on sale today.

On October 10, the 76-year-old launched his latest book on self-help, Be Useful: The Seven Tools for Life. Schwarzenegger has continued to promote his book for months, appearing in interviews and talk shows. The launch event happened at the cultural and community center on 92nd Street Y, New York. Thousands of fans turned up for the book launch, and Arnie signed copies of the book after the launch.

“I have been to a number of talks at the 92Y… I’ve never seen one of the celebrities or government subjects ever stay past the interview to shake hands and sign autographs,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “Came across as really genuine @Schwarzenegger @92ndStreetY,” the fan added in appreciation. Schwarzenegger shared the post.

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“This is what I mean when I say I’m not self-made. Who would I be without the people who go to my movies, vote for me, or buy my books?” wrote the bodybuilding icon. Instead of basking in praise, the 76-year-old took the opportunity to thank his fans and the mentors responsible for his success.

The people who helped Arnie reach the zenith of success

The bodybuilding legend attributes his success to many mentors. Kurt Marnul was the Austrian Oaks’ first mentor, who taught him weightlifting. Schwarzenegger had another mentor in Austria, Alfred Gerstl. Gerstl taught him and other young boys about history and the brutality of the Second World War. After coming to America, the bodybuilding icon met many more mentors.

He got a chance to train with his childhood idols, like Reg Park. The Austrian learned more about bodybuilding from Joe Weider, Vince Gironda, and others. He learned how to promote events like the Arnold Classic from Jim Lorimer. Kiyoshi Yamazaki taught Arnie swordplay in his breakout film, Conan the Barbarian. These are only some of the people, Schwarzenegger is indebted to.

Hence, even at 76, Schwarzenegger hasn’t forgotten the mentors who taught him and the fans who celebrate him.

Read More | American Citizen Since 1983, Arnold Schwarzenegger Makes a Surprising Confession: “I Became Rich and Famous Because of America, Not Austria”