Schwarzenegger’s Ex-Wife Joke

Arnold Schwarzenegger brought his trademark charisma to Amazon’s 2025 Upfront Presentation, but it wasn’t just his new holiday film, The Man With the Bag, that had audiences buzzing. The legendary actor and former California governor delivered a crowd-pleasing moment when he lightheartedly referenced his ex-wife, Maria Shriver, while reflecting on the enduring appeal of his 1996 festive classic, Jingle All the Way.

Schwarzenegger, now 77, captivated the room with a candid blend of nostalgia and wit, remarking, “They play it the whole month of December. I know because my ex-wife calls me about the residual.” This playful jab not only showcased his sense of humor but also highlighted the ongoing connection between the former couple, even years after their high-profile split.

The Schwarzenegger-Shriver story is well-known in Hollywood circles. Married in 1986, their partnership unraveled in 2011 following revelations about Schwarzenegger’s affair with the family’s longtime housekeeper, which resulted in the birth of Joseph Baena. Despite the public fallout, the pair have remained committed co-parents to their four children: Katherine, Christina, Patrick, and Christopher.

In recent interviews, both Schwarzenegger and Shriver have spoken openly about their evolving relationship, emphasizing mutual respect and the importance of family unity. Their children, now carving out their own paths-Katherine is a mother of three, and Patrick is engaged to model Abby Champion-remain at the heart of their shared priorities.

As anticipation builds for Schwarzenegger’s festive return in The Man With the Bag, his good-natured reference to Shriver serves as a reminder that, in Hollywood, some bonds transcend headlines and time. “They play it the whole month of December. I know because my ex-wife calls me about the residual.” Arnold Schwarzenegger.