Arnold Schwarzenegger, the legendary Hollywood actor and former governor of California, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend Franco Columbo, who recently passed away at the age of 78. In his touching homage, Schwarzenegger described Columbo as his “best friend” and spoke of the profound impact he had on his life.
Columbo, an Italian actor and bodybuilder, shared a deep bond with Schwarzenegger. They not only worked together on various films, including the iconic Terminator series, but also trained and exercised together in both Italy and the United States. Their friendship extended far beyond the realm of show business.
Schwarzenegger expressed his condolences to Columbo’s family and shared his sorrow during this difficult time. He emphasized how Columbo’s presence in his life made it “happier, more colorful, and richer.” They were true partners in crime, supporting and motivating each other throughout their journey as bodybuilders.
The two renowned bodybuilders appeared alongside each other in several movies, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. Their collaborations included films such as The Running Man, Conan the Barbarian, and of course, The Terminator. Their on-screen chemistry was a testament to the deep bond they shared as friends.
According to reports, Columbo fell ill while swimming in the sea and passed away at a hospital in his native Sardinia. Schwarzenegger, in an emotional tribute on Instagram, shared precious memories of their friendship through old photographs. He reminisced about the 54 years they spent together, full of laughter and happiness.
Schwarzenegger not only admired Columbo’s physique and dedication to bodybuilding but also cherished the personal connection forged between them. In his tribute, he highlighted the irreplaceable role Columbo played in his life, stating, “I could live without money or my parents, but not without you.”
Their friendship began in Munich, where they met and immediately formed a strong bond. Schwarzenegger recognized Columbo’s immense influence on his life and even asked Joe Weider, a prominent figure in the bodybuilding world, to bring Columbo into their training routine. From that day forward, they became inseparable.
Before their journey in Hollywood, the two friends faced the challenges of starting a business together. They founded a bricklaying company, European Brick Works, in 1969, to make ends meet. Although there were rumors of Schwarzenegger lacking a valid work visa at the time, he denied these claims, emphasizing their determination to succeed.
Schwarzenegger recounted the countless memories they created together, from intense workouts to playful pranks, and from shared meals to deep conversations. Their friendship grew stronger as they learned from each other and navigated the highs and lows of life side by side.
Franco Columbo’s legacy lives on through his daughter, Maria, and his wife, Debbie. Schwarzenegger, along with Columbo’s loved ones, finds solace in the memories they cherish and the impact Columbo had on everyone he encountered. The world lost a remarkable individual, but his spirit and his friendship with Schwarzenegger will be remembered forever.
