Arnold Schwarzenegger disclosed that he recently underwent surgery to have a pacemaker implanted, then lightened the mood with a quip.

In a recent episode of his “Arnold’s Pump Club” podcast, Schwarzenegger humorously shared, “Last Monday, I had surgery to become a little bit more of a machine: I got a pacemaker.”

He continued, “First of all, I want you to know I’m doing great! I had my surgery on Monday, and by Friday, I was already at a big environmental event with my friend and fellow fitness crusader Jane Fonda. Nobody would ever have thought I started the week with a surgery.”

Expressing gratitude, Schwarzenegger thanked his entire medical team at the Cleveland Clinic, emphasizing their exceptional care during the procedure.

The renowned actor and former Republican governor of California had undergone three previous open heart surgeries. In 1997, Schwarzenegger had his pulmonic valve and aortic valve replaced, as reported by People. Subsequent surgeries in 2018 and 2020 replaced both of those new parts due to scar tissue causing an irregular heartbeat.

Maintaining regular contact with his medical team, Schwarzenegger emphasized the importance of annual check-ups, considering his genetic heart condition. He mentioned the loss of his mother in 1998 due to not receiving valve replacement surgery.

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Reflecting on his recent surgery, Schwarzenegger recounted how he went in for routine tests before the Arnold Sports Festival and underwent the procedure during his visit to Cleveland. Despite the surgery, he resumed his usual activities promptly.

The actor also discussed cultural differences regarding discussing personal matters, particularly medical challenges, in Austrian culture. He hopes his candidness will encourage listeners to prioritize their health.

“I could have kept it a secret. But I know that we have more than 750,000 subscribers now — the village is a city now — and a lot of you are probably dealing with your own health challenges,” he said. “I want you to know you aren’t alone. And if you’re putting something off out of fear, I hope I inspire you to listen to your doctors and take care of yourself.”