Maria Shriver is an American journalist, author, producer, and former First Lady of California, boasting an impressive net worth of $200 million.
Best known for her award-winning journalism career, bestselling books, and strong Kennedy family lineage, Shriver has made significant contributions to media, politics, and philanthropy.
She is the daughter of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Sargent Shriver, placing her among the most notable members of the iconic Kennedy family.
Early Life and Kennedy Legacy
Maria Owings Shriver was born on November 6, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in a Roman Catholic household, she grew up surrounded by the influence of political royalty.
Her father, Sargent Shriver, was a renowned politician and diplomat, while her mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, was a trailblazing activist and sister to President John F. Kennedy.
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Kennedy Family Connections
Maria Shriver is deeply rooted in the Kennedy dynasty:
- Niece of JFK, Robert F. Kennedy, and Ted Kennedy
- First cousin to Caroline Kennedy, John F. Kennedy Jr., and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- Granddaughter of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy
She attended high school in Maryland before enrolling at Manhattanville College and ultimately graduating from Georgetown University with a degree in American Studies.
Media and Journalism Career
Maria’s passion for journalism began during her father’s 1972 vice-presidential campaign. After college, she launched her media career with CBS:
- Co-anchor of “CBS Morning News”
- Transitioned to NBC as co-anchor of “Sunday Today”
- Reporter and anchor on “Dateline NBC” and “NBC Nightly News”
Throughout her media career, she won multiple Emmy and Peabody awards and was highly regarded for her coverage of women’s issues and societal topics.
Return to Journalism
After serving as First Lady of California (2003-2011), Shriver returned to journalism, rejoining NBC in 2013 as a special anchor focused on women’s empowerment and social justice. She also runs The Sunday Paper, a digital newsletter offering reflections and commentary.
Authorship and Film Work
Maria Shriver is a prolific author, penning several bestselling books:
- “Ten Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Went Out Into the Real World”
- “I’ve Been Thinking: Reflections, Prayers, and Meditations for a Meaningful Life”
Her media influence also extends to television and film:
- Appeared in movies like “Last Action Hero”
- Guest-starred on TV shows including “That’s So Raven”
- Executive producer of HBO’s acclaimed “The Alzheimer’s Project”
Family and Personal Life
Marriage to Arnold Schwarzenegger
Maria married Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1986 after meeting him at a charity event. Together, they had four children:
- Katherine Schwarzenegger (1989) – Author, married to actor Chris Pratt
- Christina Schwarzenegger (1991) – Producer and filmmaker
- Patrick Schwarzenegger (1993) – Actor and model
- Christopher Schwarzenegger (1997) – University of Michigan graduate
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Separation and Divorce
The couple separated in 2011 after it was revealed Arnold fathered a child with their housekeeper, Mildred Patricia Baena. Their divorce was finalized in 2017, with Maria reportedly receiving up to $200 million in the settlement.
Post-Divorce Relationship
Since 2013, Maria has been linked to Matthew Dowd, a political consultant who once worked on Schwarzenegger’s campaign.
The Kennedy Family Wealth
Maria benefits from the vast Kennedy family fortune:
- Earns income from assets like Vornado Realty Trust and Vornado Realty Inc., each valued at $7.5 million
- The family has earned over $170 million in dividends since 1998
- The Kennedy assets are expertly structured to defer capital gains taxes and manage depreciation
Real Estate Holdings
Maria has made substantial investments in real estate, especially post-divorce:
- 2002: Purchased a 6-acre Brentwood property with Arnold for $4.8 million
- Post-divorce: Purchased a $10 million Brentwood mansion
- 2022: Expanded her Brentwood holdings with a $12.2 million adjacent property
- Also scouted homes worth $5 million for her children post-graduation
Philanthropy and Advocacy
During her time as California’s First Lady, Shriver championed women’s empowerment and Alzheimer’s advocacy, particularly through The Women’s Conference. Her lifelong commitment to public service, mental health, and social justice continues to define her career.
