Though many insiders predicted he would stay out of the upcoming race for California governor, action star Arnold Schwarzenegger has defied the odds, announcing he will indeed be running for the state's top office.
In true Hollywood style, the Terminator star revealed his plans on the popular TV chat show "Tonight With Jay Leno," and even allowed the highly-anticipated announcement to serve as a punchline on the comedy programme. "Well, Jay, after thinking for a long time my decision is," Arnold began, before the broadcast was interrupted with a "Please Stand By" sign. Moments later, the show returned, with the movie star seeming to wrap up his speech with: "And that's why I decided that way." Jokes aside, Arnie's real announcement was met with gasps, cheers, and applause from the California studio audience.
The actor, famed for his quips, acknowledged that the decision was the most difficult choice he's made since deciding to get a bikini wax in 1978. Many had speculated that fear of his private life being exposed would keep the staunch Republican out of politics, but the Terminator star said he's prepared for attacks branding him a "womanizer" or "a terrible person". "I know that they're going to throw everything at me," he said.
The Austrian-born bodybuilder will be going against a number of candidates – including Hustler publisher Larry Flynt – in the October 7 elections, a recall vote for current Democratic governor, Gray Davis, who has seen his popularity plunge due to a $38-billion budget deficit.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Arnie announced his plans on the popular night-time chat show Tonight With Jay Leno
Photo: © Alphapress.com
The star greets fans outside the Burbank, California, TV studios
Photo: © AFP
