Arnold Schwarzenegger, the bona fide fitness enthusiast, takes his job of championing fitness and a healthy lifestyle very seriously. Giving gym goals to millions for over a decade, the award-winning bodybuilder never refrains from pushing the generation of Instagram scrollers to get up and break a sweat. Apart from fitness, the Terminator actor also raises awareness about mental health issues, the emotional well-being of people, and drug abuse. 

The fitness freak of Hollywood always claimed that he kept his distance from any kind of drug abuse. However, during an interview, Schwarzenegger’s claim backfired on him and he found himself in the middle of controversies. 

Arnold Schwarzenegger invited trouble for his claim of being drug-free 

The Golden Globe Award-winning actor released his docudrama, Pumping Iron, which focused on the 1975 Mr. Olympia competition, in the year 1977. Despite receiving positive reviews and ratings, it became a subject of controversy in the year 2007. The 76-year-old told the British edition of GQ magazine as per Koimoi that he always stayed away from drugs. However, in the past, the actor acknowledged consuming marijuana, which was shown in his documentary, Pumping Iron.

When GQ reminded the bodybuilder about his past statements, the seven times Mr. Olympia said, “That is not a drug. It’s a leaf.” Schwarzenegger further went on to reference his documentary saying, “My drug was pumping iron, trust me.” Even though later Aaron McLear, Mr. Schwarzenegger’s press secretary, clarified that the former Governor was in fact joking, the statement did not sit well with the general public. 

People especially felt let down because the Predator actor has always been a staunch advocate for body abuse. In a 2023 interview, the actor spoke about the adverse effects of using steroids for bodybuilding.

Schwarzenegger is promoting body positivity in the youth

Before spreading awareness about mental health issues post-COVID-19, the action hero also went into records to oppose body abuse. During his interview with Men’s Health, the former bodybuilder opened up about his steroid usage. He came forward to give away the exact quantity of steroids he used in his days and juxtaposed it with the present day’s steroid abuse. He also pointed out how the irresponsible usage of such chemicals is causing numerous fatalities. 

The Commando actor further went on to say how the youth is unaware of the potential harm of such abuse and said they “don’t know what the f**k they’re doing”. Schwarzenegger talked about how nowadays everyone craves convenience and looks for faster ways to succeed. He advised everyone to not seek shortcuts and said “Any time you abuse the body, you’re going to regret it later on.” 

Let us know your thoughts about Arnold Schwarzenegger’s throwback interview in the comments below.