“I Am Devastated”: Arnold Schwarzenegger Mourns the Death of 96-Year-Old Friend Days After Christmas

2022 has been a bittersweet year for yesteryear bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger. From becoming a grandfather for the second time to losing dear friend Jim Lorimer, Arnie has many memories to take forward in the new year. Recalling the year, the Terminator star, in his newsletter, weaved words in memory of his late friend. Mourning the loss of the co-founder of the Arnold Sports Festival, Arnie revealed how his dear friend “will live forever through the millions of people.”

Walking down memory lane, the bodybuilding maestro had a lot to share. From sending his prayers for Jim’s family to recalling the bygone days they spent together, Arnold had a lot to say.

Arnold Schwarzenegger “devastated” after losing his dear friend Jim

Expressing his grief the seven-times Mr. Olympia in his newsletter wrote, “I am devastated that I won’t sit with him again and hear his wisdom, or critique bodybuilders together, or just laugh and laugh.” For those unversed, Jim and Arnold have been friends since the 70s. A former corporate executive and an FBI agent, Jim, alongside Arnold, were strong proponents of bodybuilding.

The duo played a crucial role in making bodybuilding a mainstream sport. The impact they created in the fitness/bodybuilding community was impeccable. Their friendship started when Jim invited the rising bodybuilding star to an participates in an event in Columbus, Ohio. Since then, through thick and thin the two were forever at each other’s side.

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However, as Arnold remarks, the veteran will remain in people’s minds. Crediting him for his contributions, Arnie wrote, “He’s one reason I would never call myself self-made.” Arnold’s son Patrick also took to his Twitter to pay Jim a heartfelt tribute. After retraining from professional bodybuilding, Arnold and Jim partnered to promote bodybuilding.

Looking back at the friendship between Arnold and Jim that spanned decades 

Arnold encountered Jim 52 years ago at Mr. World’s bodybuilding championship. Jim, during the said time, was organizing the event. Amazed at how he “organized so fantastically in Columbus,” the young bodybuilder knew immediately that “Jim would be a big part of my life.”

Starting a journey together in 1976 to a month back, the two have seen several ups and downs together. From organizing bodybuilding events to popularizing the sport into the mainstream, they inspired people to live healthier lives. As Jim left for his heavenly abode, his family and friends carried forward his legacy. “I know he is up there in heaven teaching his new friends how to stay in shape.” penned Arnold as the parting words.

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