Arnold Schwarzenegger’s career has spanned decades, encompassing bodybuilding, acting, politics, and business ventures, ultimately amassing an estimated net worth of around $1 billion. Whereas roles in action blockbusters like “Terminator 2” and “True Lies” cemented his status as a Hollywood icon, it was a 1988 comedy that proved to be his most lucrative film venture. Schwarzenegger recently revealed that “Twins,” co-starring Danny DeVito, generated more revenue for him than any other movie he’s made, a surprising twist given his dominance in the action genre.
The revelation came during an appearance on the US talk show Watch What Happens Live, where Schwarzenegger explained the unusual financial arrangement behind the film. Rather than receiving a traditional salary, he and DeVito negotiated a deal that granted them a 40 percent share of the film’s profits. This proved to be a remarkably successful strategy, turning “Twins” into a financial windfall.
“Number 1 was ‘Twins,’ because we didn’t get a salary, we got a percentage of the profits,” Schwarzenegger stated. When pressed on whether his earnings from “Twins” exceeded $20 million, he responded with a firm “Yes.” And when asked if the figure was closer to $40 million, he clarified, “It was more. More than with any other film I’ve ever done.”
A Shift in Hollywood Perception
The success of “Twins” marked a turning point in how Hollywood perceived Schwarzenegger. At the end of the 1980s, the industry largely saw him as an action hero, a reliable box office draw when delivering on-screen violence. Although, director Ivan Reitman and actor Danny DeVito recognized the potential for Schwarzenegger to expand his range, leading to the development of the comedy. The film, released in 1988, grossed over $216 million worldwide on a budget of $16.5 million, proving the viability of Schwarzenegger in a different genre.
The financial arrangement—forgoing upfront salaries in exchange for 40 percent of the profits—was key to Schwarzenegger’s substantial earnings. It was, as he put it, “the best deal we ever made.” This deal highlights a strategic move that maximized his financial gain from the film’s unexpected success.
Schwarzenegger’s financial success extends beyond acting. He has built a substantial fortune through real estate investments, stock market ventures, and his own production company, contributing to an estimated net worth of $1 billion. However, “Twins” remains a standout achievement in his career, demonstrating the power of a well-negotiated deal and a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities.
While “Twins” proved to be his most profitable film, Schwarzenegger has earned significant sums from other projects. He reportedly received a $15 million salary for “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” and approximately $25 million, including profit participation, for “True Lies.”
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