Arnold Schwarzenegger and Heather Milligan have enjoyed a vibrant relationship that has flourished over a decade. Schwarzenegger, a legendary actor and former California governor, was married to Maria Shriver from 1986 until their separation in 2011. They finalized their divorce in 2020. It was during his recovery from shoulder surgery in 2012 that he first met Milligan, a recommendation from his doctor. Milligan, a former competitive gymnast and a physical therapist, is the founder of Elite OrthoSport, a specialized physical therapy company. Their mutual interests and values quickly became evident, with Schwarzenegger noting Milligan’s independence and drive, declaring in a 2023 interview with People that he holds her in high regard.
The initial connection between the duo was rooted in rehabilitation. As Schwarzenegger prepared for his 2013 film Escape Plan, he expressed the urgent need for expert physical therapy. His doctor assured him that Milligan was the best choice for his recovery. After completing his therapy, Schwarzenegger invited her to lunch as a gesture of gratitude, leading to a blossoming relationship that neither of them could have anticipated. Their shared experiences not only brought them closer but solidified their bond over common interests, including a passion for fitness.
Their romance garnered public attention, starting around 2014 when they were seen frequently together. Their first official appearance was at the Environmental Media Awards, marking a significant step in their relationship’s visibility. This public outing dispelled any lingering speculation about their romantic involvement. By 2016, they showcased their affection once again while attending the White Sausage Party in Austria, displaying cultural pride through traditional attire and further demonstrating the depth of their bond.
In 2018, the couple added a new dynamic to their relationship by being spotted at a Los Angeles Lakers game, a testament to their shared enjoyment of sports and leisure activities. This appearance marked their growing comfort with public engagements as a couple. The following year, the pair spent Father’s Day biking around Los Angeles, further emphasizing the everyday joy they found in one another’s company. Their relational milestones illustrate a progression from private to public, with each appearance strengthening their connection.
As their relationship has evolved, Schwarzenegger has often praised Milligan in various interviews. In a 2024 podcast appearance on "New Heights," he highlighted Milligan’s background in sports therapy and her enthusiasm for athletics, further solidifying her importance in his life. Their shared passion for sports, especially football, indicates not just romantic compatibility but also a deeply rooted friendship that enriches their lives.
By 2025, Schwarzenegger and Milligan appeared together on the red carpet at the premiere of Netflix’s FUBAR Season 2, marking another milestone in their public journey together. Their collective experiences, both in private and public settings, reflect a relationship built on mutual respect, admiration, and shared interests. The decade-long relationship is a testament to their commitment to one another and their ability to navigate life’s various challenges together, offering a glimpse into their enduring partnership.
