Arnold Schwarzenegger, the iconic actor, former bodybuilder, and politician, is known for his forthrightness and larger-than-life persona. Recently, he stirred up a significant conversation about life after death during an interview with his long-time friend and fellow actor, Danny DeVito. Their conversation, part of an interview for Interview Magazine, delved into deep and personal topics, including Schwarzenegger’s candid views on heaven, religion, and the afterlife. His perspective, particularly his belief that heaven is a “fantasy,” has sparked considerable debate.
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito have a storied friendship that dates back to their days filming the 1988 comedy classic Twins. The chemistry they shared on-screen was a reflection of their genuine off-screen bond. Over the years, they’ve remained close, often engaging in deep and meaningful conversations that go beyond their Hollywood careers. In their latest discussion, they touched on one of life’s most profound questions: what happens after we die?
When DeVito inquired about Schwarzenegger’s thoughts on the afterlife, Schwarzenegger didn’t sugarcoat his response. Recalling a similar question from radio host Howard Stern, he bluntly stated, “Nothing. You’re six feet under. Anyone that tells you something else is a f***ing liar.” This stark view on death might be surprising to some, especially considering Schwarzenegger’s charismatic and upbeat public persona.
Schwarzenegger’s outlook is rooted in a pragmatic approach to life and death. He expressed a deep skepticism about the existence of heaven, dismissing it as a comforting but ultimately unfounded belief. “We don’t know what happens with the soul and all this spiritual stuff that I’m not an expert in, but I know that the body as we see each other now, we will never see each other again like that,” he added, emphasizing the finality of death.
For many, the idea of heaven is a comforting belief—a place where we reunite with loved ones after death. However, Schwarzenegger challenged this notion, calling it a “fantasy.” His view is grounded in a reality that, while uncomfortable for some, reflects his personal experiences and losses.
“When people talk about, ‘I will see them again in heaven,’ it sounds so good, but the reality is that we won’t see each other again after we’re gone. That’s the sad part,” Schwarzenegger shared. His words reflect a deep sense of realism and a recognition of the finality of death, which contrasts sharply with the hopeful beliefs held by many.
Despite his skepticism about a traditional afterlife, Schwarzenegger has crafted a personal interpretation of heaven. To him, heaven isn’t a physical place in the clouds but rather a mental space where he cherishes the memories of those he loves. “To me, heaven is where I put a person who I love dearly, who is kind, who is generous, who made a difference in my life and other people’s lives,” he explained.
Schwarzenegger likened this personal heaven to a “front row” in his mind, a place where the people who have made a significant impact on his life reside in his thoughts. This conceptualization allows him to keep these individuals close, even after their passing, offering a unique blend of realism and sentimentality.
Schwarzenegger’s current views might seem at odds with his Catholic upbringing. Raised in the Catholic Church, he attended services regularly and was educated in Catholic schools. In a 2021 interview, Schwarzenegger reflected on the lasting impact of his religious upbringing, particularly the concept of having “a servant’s heart”—the idea of dedicating oneself to a cause greater than personal interests.
This principle has clearly influenced his life, both in his Hollywood career and during his time as Governor of California. Schwarzenegger often emphasizes the importance of public service and living up to the ideals of selflessness and duty that he learned in his youth. Despite his skepticism about the afterlife, these core values continue to shape his actions and beliefs.
Schwarzenegger’s reflections on his religious upbringing are not just about personal beliefs; they also carry a message for public leaders. He has frequently called on elected officials to embody the principles of service and dedication that he was taught as a child. In his view, what the world needs now are leaders who prioritize the greater good over personal or political gain.
“What we need right now from our elected representatives is a public servant’s heart,” Schwarzenegger stated, urging leaders to rise above partisanship and serve the ideals that form the foundation of society. His comments highlight the ongoing influence of his early religious education, even as his views on specific religious doctrines have evolved.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s candid views on heaven, religion, and the afterlife provide a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a man who has lived an extraordinary life. His belief that heaven is a “fantasy” and his blunt acceptance of death’s finality challenge conventional ideas but also offer a refreshing dose of realism. Schwarzenegger’s reflections remind us that how we choose to live—and how we remember those who have passed—may be more important than what happens after we die.
While his views may not align with everyone’s beliefs, they encourage a deeper consideration of our own perspectives on life, death, and what lies beyond. In true Schwarzenegger fashion, his thoughts are unapologetically direct, yet they carry a profound message about cherishing the present and honoring the legacy of those we love.
