One of Hollywood’s most renowned actors looked unrecognisable as he was spotted on the set of an upcoming Christmas movie on Friday.
The actor, 77, appeared to be getting into the holiday spirit early as he donned a big red Santa coat adorned with snowflake and reindeer stitching.
He paired the coat with a matching red jumpsuit and black boots while awaiting instructions from the director.
To complete his festive ensemble, he wore the iconic red hat with a white fur trim and swapped his short beard for Santa’s full white beard.
With this new look, he appeared a far cry from the action and comedy star fans have come to know and love.
But do you recognise him?
One of Hollywood’s most renowned actors looked unrecognisable as he was spotted on the set of an upcoming Christmas movie on Friday
The actor, 77, could be seen getting into the holiday spirit early, donning a big red Santa coat and beard – but do you know who he is?
That’s right, it’s Arnold Schwarzenegger!
Arnold Schwarzenegger is widely recognized for his appearances in action films such as The Terminator. However, he also showcased his talent in the 1996 Christmas comedy Jingle All The Way. In this movie, Schwarzenegger portrays a father consumed by work who embarks on a quest to secure a coveted action figure for his son. Through this journey, he discovers the true essence of the holiday season.
Despite his background in action-packed roles, Schwarzenegger, the former governor of California and a recent grandfather, adds his name to the roster of actors who have taken on the iconic role of Santa Claus. Other notable actors who have portrayed the festive character include Ben Affleck, Tim Allen, Billy Bob Thornton, and Kurt Russell.
News that the Hollywood legend would star in another Christmas comedy first broke in March of last year.
Directed by Adam Shankman, the Amazon MGM Studios movie is written by Allan Rice.
The plotline reads: ‘When Santa’s magic bag is stolen, he turns to his naughty list to find Vance, a former thief, to help him get it back.’
‘Along with his daughter, Santa, and a group of misfit elves, Vance will have to pull off the greatest heist of his life to save Christmas.’
It will mark the first time that Arnie has appeared in a festive movie since Jingle All The Way in 1996.
This still from the movie reveals Arnold Schwarzenegger’s transformation into Santa Claus. The renowned actor swaps his usual attire for a vibrant red Santa jumpsuit, complete with a matching coat adorned with white fur trim, as he immerses himself in filming scenes for his latest project.
Arnold is best known for his roles in many action films, including The Terminator, and days as a bodybuilder; seen in 1976
It will also be his first film role of any kind since Terminator: Dark Fate in 2019.
Although he shot Kung Fury 2 that same year, it has yet to be released due to legal issues.
Arnold was also seen in a documentary last year for Netflix. The three-part docuseries followed his multifaceted life and career, from bodybuilding champ to Hollywood icon to politician.
Although Arnie played the titular character in the Terminator franchise, he admitted last year that he was ‘done’ with the movies.
He believes the future of the series should be passed on to other stars, according to the actor, who is also the ex-husband of Maria Shriver.
At the time, the actor told The Hollywood Reporter: ‘The franchise is not done. I’m done.’
‘I got the message loud and clear that the world wants to move on with a different theme when it comes to ‘The Terminator’. Someone has to come up with a great idea.’
Arnie added that he will always have fond memories of the franchise that made him a leading man.
He said: ‘The Terminator was largely responsible for my success, so I always would look at it very fondly.’
In addition to his acting career, he is father to five children: daughters Katherine, 35, and Christina, 31, and sons Patrick, 31, and Christopher, 27, and Joseph, 27.
He shares all his children with Maria, apart from Joseph, whose mother is Mildred Patricia Baena, his longtime housekeeper.
