The strikes in Hollywood by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the WGA (Writers Guild of America) are the longest in history. The stir has caused over 40,000 members of the union to lose their jobs. It also cost Southern California’s economy approximately $6.5 billion. During the SAG-AFTRA strike, actors and other film industry members were asking for higher pay, better working conditions, and contracts that specified the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Action superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger, though, has kept silent on the matter.

The actor and bodybuilder’s sons, however, were active and protesting. Recently, Schwarzenegger Sr. made a considerable donation to an organization that supports the people who lost their jobs due to this strike. Earlier, in an interview with Jose Andres, he revealed why he donated the amount despite remaining silent on about the strikes the whole time.

Arnold Schwarzenegger makes significant donation

Before answering Andres’s question, the Terminator star explained that he is fortunate to live in this country. He said that it was his childhood dream to get settled in the United States of America, and that he felt he belonged to the place. With his determination and dedication, he made his wish come true.

During his prime in bodybuilding, Arnold Schwarzenegger became an ambassador for fitness and led the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. He traveled across all states in the US to encourage physical education. Later, he started an after-school program, now called the After-Scholl All Starts, offering activities to over one lakh students in 13 states.

“I have made millions of dollars in America. So when you talk about giving a million dollars to SAG for the poor people who are now suffering because of the strike, I didn’t think twice. I earned the money that I have because of America, so I’m more than happy to give some of it away for very important causes,” said the former Mr. Universe about the donation.

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It is heartening that the former Mr. Olympia realizes his success isn’t solely because of himself. He is not entirely self-made. He acknowledges that people helped him rise to the top. So, he made a promise to give back to the country a portion of the amount he earned through his career.

Schwarzenegger’s sons supported the strike

People expected the actor to speak about the actors’ protests, but he remained quiet. However, he never stopped his sons from taking part in the strike, and they openly joined the protestors on the streets. His elder son Patrick Schwarzengger openly made statements about the issue.

We have seen Patrick Schwarzenegger being vocal about his thoughts on various issues. The 30-year-old actor showcased his solidarity with the SAG-AFTRA and WGA at the beginning of the strikes itself. So, when the DiscussingFilm channel shared the news of the deal, Patrick commented, “LET’S GO!!” on X. Earlier, he had taken to the streets holding placards.

Joseph Baena, Patrick’s half-brother, too, offered his support to the actor and writer guilds. “I do stand with my brothers and sisters in the union,” he revealed in a live session. But he admitted that he missed auditioning for roles.

All said and done, the senior Schwarzenegger’s act of donation to his fellow industry people amidst the strikes, shows his support more than standing on the picket lines.

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