Arnold and Patrick Schwarzenegger Discuss Acting Legacy in Candid Interview

Los Angeles, CA — Father and son duo Arnold and Patrick Schwarzenegger recently sat down for a candid interview for Variety’s ‘Actors on Actors’ series, marking a significant moment in their family legacy. The two discussed Patrick’s rising success in the entertainment industry, particularly his impressive performance in season 3 of HBO‘s ‘The White Lotus.’

Patrick, 31, has been making a name for himself with roles in ‘The Staircase‘ and ‘Scream Queens,’ diverging from the classic action mold set by his father, Arnold, who is known for blockbuster hits like ‘Terminator’ and ‘True Lies.’ Arnold expressed his surprise at Patrick’s acting skills, stating, ‘Your acting surprised the hell out of me. I didn’t recognize you. I was blown away.’

Patrick reflected on the challenges of being a ‘nepo baby,’ admitting that he sometimes considered using an alias to distance himself from his famous last name. He explained, ‘There were times earlier in my career where I was wondering, does it make sense to go under an alias? It took a while for me to get to a point where I was less worried about living in your shadow.’

The conversation also touched on the heavy expectations that come with their family name. Arnold asked Patrick to explain how his surname feels like both a blessing and a burden. Patrick noted that casting director Mike White was concerned about public perception when he was considered for ‘The White Lotus,’ as some felt he was cast simply due to his father’s fame.

In a humorous exchange, the two discussed their experiences with nude scenes, with Arnold joking about seeing Patrick’s intimate scene in ‘The White Lotus.’ ‘It was a shock to me that you were following my footsteps so closely,’ Arnold said. Patrick recalled that his mother had a different reaction to his nude scene, which they found amusing.

Throughout their discussion, both acknowledged the importance of hard work and determination. Arnold advised Patrick to continue striving for the top, stating, ‘When I came to America, I had a clear vision of myself being up on top. That’s all I cared about.’ Patrick expressed his gratitude for the opportunities provided by his parents, affirming, ‘I understand how hard you and Mom have worked throughout your life to give me the opportunities that I’ve had.’

This conversation highlights not only the differences in their acting careers but also the strong familial bond between the two, showcasing their mutual respect and support as they navigate their unique paths in Hollywood.