Meinhard Schwarzenegger was the older brother of Arnold Schwarzenegger, the famous actor, bodybuilder, and politician. He was born on July 17, 1946, in Thal, Austria, to Gustav and Aurelia Schwarzenegger. He had a complicated relationship with his father, who was a former Nazi and a strict disciplinarian. He also struggled with his artistic soul and the environment he grew up in. He died in a car crash on May 20, 1971, at the age of 24. Here is what you need to know about Meinhard Schwarzenegger cause of death and how it affected Arnold’s life.
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The Accident that Took Meinhard’s Life
According to Vizaca, Meinhard was killed in an automobile accident on May 20, 1971. He slammed into a telephone pole while being impaired by alcohol. Hence, Meinhard Schwarzenegger cause of death was an accident. Despite their developing separation, Arnold was astounded by the news.
He rushed to Austria to attend his brother’s funeral, which was held at Weizbergfriedhof cemetery in Weiz, Austria. Arnold was the sole heir of his brother’s estate, which included a car and a motorcycle. He also paid for his brother’s debts and funeral expenses.
The Relationship between Meinhard and Arnold
Meinhard and Arnold had a close bond as brothers, but they also had their differences. Meinhard was more interested in music and art than sports and bodybuilding. He played the guitar and sang in a band called The Rockers. He also had a rebellious streak and often got into trouble with the law.
Arnold, on the other hand, was more focused on his physical fitness and his ambition to become a star. He started lifting weights at the age of 15 and soon became obsessed with bodybuilding. He also dreamed of moving to America and pursuing a career in Hollywood.
The brothers often competed with each other for their father’s approval, but Gustav favored Meinhard over Arnold. He believed that Meinhard was more masculine and disciplined than Arnold, who he considered weak and feminine. He also disapproved of Arnold’s interest in bodybuilding and acting.
Gustav was abusive towards both of his sons, physically and emotionally. He would beat them with belts and sticks for minor infractions. He would also humiliate them in front of others and call them names. According to Insider, Arnold said that his father’s abuse led to his brother’s death.
The Impact of Meinhard’s Death on Arnold
Meinhard’s death had a profound impact on Arnold’s life and career. It made him realize the fragility of life and the importance of pursuing his dreams. It also motivated him to work harder and achieve more.
Arnold dedicated his first Mr. Olympia title in 1970 to his brother. He also named his first son Patrick after his brother’s middle name. He also kept in touch with his brother’s widow, Erika Knapp, and his son, Patrick Knapp Schwarzenegger.
Arnold opened up about his brother’s death in the Netflix documentary series “Arnold”, which premiered in June 2023. The series delves into the life of Arnold Schwarzenegger, shedding light on both his public personas as well as his formative years and how his upbringing shaped the man he is today.
Meinhard Schwarzenegger cause of death was a tragic accident that cut short a young life full of potential. His brother Arnold never forgot him and honored him in various ways throughout his life. Meinhard Schwarzenegger remains an important part of Arnold’s story and legacy.
