In a candid pre-release interview with PEOPLE, Arnold Schwarzenegger, the renowned action star and former California governor, shed light on his dynamic friendship with fellow icon Sylvester Stallone, offering insights into their distinctive personalities and shared history. Reflecting on their relationship, Schwarzenegger humorously highlighted their differing notions of leisure and relaxation, emphasizing their unique approaches to downtime and their contrasting preferences in terms of recreational activities.
“Sly calls me: ‘Want to come on the yacht?’ What, do you think I’m going to ask, ‘When can I have dinner?’ It’s not going to happen,” Schwarzenegger, 76, deadpans. “I can get my own yacht. That’s not my trip. I can’t even relax under those circumstances.”
Recounting an anecdote about Stallone’s penchant for inviting him onto his yacht, Schwarzenegger playfully dismissed the idea, showcasing his independent spirit and asserting his preference for alternative forms of relaxation. While the two have maintained a playful rivalry over the years, Schwarzenegger acknowledged their mutual respect and admiration, highlighting Stallone’s raw emotional intensity as a striking contrast to his own composed demeanor.
. “I really admire him,” says the Terminator star. “I love him. He’s just a different person than me.” “He’s much more raw, and he’s much more vulnerable and in touch with his emotions,” he adds of his friend.
Describing Stallone’s immediate emotional reactions, Schwarzenegger drew parallels to their differing approaches, noting that while Stallone’s emotions erupt swiftly, his own responses are more measured and gradual, illustrating the nuanced dynamics that have shaped their respective acting styles and personas over the years.
Beyond their shared experiences and playful banter, Schwarzenegger also opened up about the valuable lessons he has gleaned from seasoned actors like Jeff Bridges, Sally Field, and Clint Eastwood, highlighting their influence on his own approach to performance and the craft of acting. Expressing admiration for their artistry and skill, he underscored the significance of their contributions to his growth as an actor and their lasting impact on his own artistic journey.
With the impending release of his book, “Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life,” Schwarzenegger’s insights into his personal life, work ethic, and approach to relaxation offer a compelling glimpse into the multifaceted persona of the iconic actor, philanthropist, and advocate. As he continues to evolve and inspire, Schwarzenegger’s enduring legacy remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and personal growth, transcending the boundaries of the silver screen to leave an indelible mark on the realms of public service and personal development.
