Maria Shriver: Biography, Grandparents, Books, Divorce, and Boyfriend
Maria Shriver Biography
Maria Shriver is a renowned American journalist, author, former First Lady of California, and a member of two of America’s most prominent political families—the Shrivers and the Kennedys. She is also the founder of The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for women impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.
Shriver began her journalism career at KYW-TV, a CBS affiliate, and went on to co-anchor the CBS Morning News. In 1986, she joined NBC News, where she served in various roles, including weekend anchor for Today and NBC Nightly News and later as a correspondent for Dateline NBC. She earned wide acclaim for her political and social coverage and received a Peabody Award in 1998. Notably, she co-anchored NBC’s Emmy Award-winning coverage of the 1988 Summer Olympics.
After stepping away from journalism in 2004 to focus on her responsibilities as First Lady of California, she returned to NBC in 2013 as a special anchor. As executive producer of The Alzheimer’s Project, Shriver won two Emmy Awards and an Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Award for creating a program with social impact.
Maria Shriver Younger
In her younger years, Maria Shriver was already making waves. As a child of political royalty, she was exposed to public service early. She graduated from Georgetown University in 1977, and by the early 1980s, she was one of the few women making strides in television journalism. Early career photos show her with voluminous hair, shoulder pads, and the fierce confidence of a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry.
Maria Shriver Education
Shriver attended Westland Middle School and graduated in 1973 from Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, Maryland. She initially enrolled at Manhattanville College before transferring to Georgetown University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies in 1977.
Maria Shriver Age and Birthday
Born Maria Owings Shriver on November 6, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, she will be 69 years old in 2025. She celebrates her birthday each year on November 6.
Height and Measurements
Maria Shriver stands at a height of 5 feet 5 inches (1.66 meters). Specific details regarding her other body measurements have not been publicly disclosed.
Maria Shriver Parents and Family
Maria was born into one of America’s most distinguished families. Her father, Sargent Shriver, was a politician and diplomat best known as the founding director of the Peace Corps and the U.S. ambassador to France. Her mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, was a passionate advocate for the disabled and the founder of the Special Olympics. Eunice was the sister of President John F. Kennedy, which makes Maria a niece to President JFK, Robert F. Kennedy, and Senator Ted Kennedy. She is of Irish and German descent.
Eunice Mary Kennedy Shriver
Maria’s mother, Eunice Mary Kennedy Shriver, was a powerful force in her own right. She was the founder of the Special Olympics, advocating for the rights and dignity of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Born in 1921, Eunice was known for her fiery passion, resilience, and devotion to public service. She left a profound legacy, not just as a Kennedy, but as a humanitarian and advocate. Maria has often cited her mother as her greatest role model.
Grandparents
Maria Shriver’s family legacy stretches back through some of the most influential American bloodlines. On her maternal side, her grandparents were Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. Joseph was a prominent businessman and diplomat, and Rose was a philanthropist and matriarch of the Kennedy dynasty. On her paternal side, Maria’s grandparents were Robert Sargent Shriver Sr. and Hilda Shriver (née Shriver), who descended from German-American roots. Together, these families shaped political, philanthropic, and social discourse throughout the 20th century.
Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger | Marriage and Divorce
Maria Shriver married Arnold Schwarzenegger—Austrian-American bodybuilder, actor, and politician—on April 26, 1986, in Hyannis, Massachusetts. The couple met in 1977 at a charity tennis event hosted by Maria’s mother, where they were introduced by journalist Tom Brokaw. Together, they had four children: Katherine, Christina, Patrick, and Christopher.
After 25 years of marriage, the couple announced their separation in May 2011, following the revelation that Schwarzenegger had fathered a child, Joseph Baena, with household staff member Mildred “Patty” Baena in 1997. The news came to light only after Shriver confronted her husband and Baena. In response, Maria publicly expressed her heartbreak and focused on protecting her children during the difficult transition.
Shriver filed for divorce on July 1, 2011, citing irreconcilable differences. After a prolonged legal process, their divorce was finalized in December 2021.
Matthew Dowd and Maria Shriver
Rumors of a relationship between Maria Shriver and political analyst Matthew Dowd emerged around 2013, not long after her separation from Arnold Schwarzenegger. Dowd had served as a strategist for President George W. Bush and was a frequent political commentator. The two were spotted together multiple times and were reportedly close, though neither publicly confirmed a long-term romantic relationship. As of recent years, they are no longer believed to be together.
Maria Shriver Boyfriend / Partner
Since her divorce from Arnold Schwarzenegger and rumored connection with Matthew Dowd, Maria Shriver has kept her romantic life private. As of 2025, she is not publicly known to be dating anyone and seems to focus her energy on family, advocacy, and professional work. She has often emphasized personal growth and spirituality as guiding forces in her life post-divorce.
Maria Shriver Children
Maria and Arnold have four children:
Katherine Schwarzenegger (b. December 13, 1989) – Author and wife of actor Chris Pratt.
Christina Schwarzenegger (b. July 23, 1991)
Patrick Schwarzenegger (b. September 18, 1993) – Actor and model.
Christopher Schwarzenegger (b. September 27, 1997)
Maria Shriver Arnold Schwarzenegger
Schwarzenegger, born July 30, 1947, in Styria, Austria, is a multifaceted figure—actor, former Governor of California (2003–2011), businessman, and philanthropist. Despite the highly publicized challenges in their marriage, both Maria and Arnold have remained committed to co-parenting their children and have maintained a respectful relationship.
Maria Shriver and Harrison Butker
Maria Shriver made headlines in 2024 for responding to Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College, which was widely criticized for its remarks about women and gender roles. Shriver took to social media to express disappointment, calling for more inclusive and empowering narratives for young women. Her comments echoed her long-standing advocacy for women’s rights and her support for women pursuing purpose-driven, self-directed lives.
The Sunday Paper
Maria is also the founder of The Sunday Paper, a digital publication aimed at fostering thoughtful conversations and inspiring readers to live more meaningful lives. Through the platform, Shriver shares personal insights, life lessons, and reflections on how to navigate the modern world with purpose and grace.
Maria Shriver’s Famous Uncles
Maria Shriver’s maternal uncles were towering figures in American history:
President John F. Kennedy
Senator Robert F. Kennedy
Senator Ted Kennedy
She is the niece of three of the most influential political figures of the 20th century, placing her at the center of American history and public life.
Maria Shriver Now (As of 2025)
As of 2025, Maria Shriver remains an active voice in media and social change. She continues to serve as a special anchor for NBC News, regularly contributes to The Sunday Paper, and leads initiatives through The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement. She is also an in-demand speaker, author, and advocate for brain health, gender equity, and spirituality. Shriver splits her time between California and New York, staying deeply involved in philanthropy, journalism, and family life.
Maria Shriver on Shark Tank
Maria Shriver has not appeared as an investor or guest judge on Shark Tank. However, she has been involved in entrepreneurship and innovation through her philanthropic ventures, especially when it comes to women’s health and brain research. While not a “shark” in the traditional sense, she has supported and mentored several women-led businesses and social enterprises.
Books
Maria Shriver is also a best-selling author, known for her thoughtful, inspiring, and introspective writing. Her books often address life transitions, faith, loss, and purpose. Some of her most notable works include:
“Just Who Will You Be?” – A graduation speech turned motivational book on discovering your identity.
“What’s Heaven?” – A children’s book that explains loss and the afterlife.
“Ten Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Went Out Into The Real World” – Life advice for young adults.
“I’ve Been Thinking…” – A collection of reflections and prayers for a meaningful life.
“I’ve Been Thinking… The Journal” – A guided journal companion to her earlier book.
“And One More Thing Before You Go…” – A heartfelt compilation of wisdom and encouragement.
Maria Shriver and Plastic Surgery
Speculation has circulated over the years regarding whether Maria Shriver has had plastic surgery or cosmetic enhancements. She has never publicly confirmed undergoing any procedures. While some public observers have noted changes in her appearance, especially in facial features, many credit these changes to natural aging, makeup, lighting, and healthy living.
Salary
As a special anchor at NBC News, Maria Shriver earns an estimated annual salary ranging between $65,000 and $120,000, depending on assignments and seniority. The exact figure is not publicly disclosed.
Maria Shriver Net Worth
Maria Shriver’s net worth is estimated at $200 million, accumulated through her work as a journalist, author, public speaker, and as part of a high-profile divorce settlement. Her ties to the influential Kennedy family and long-standing media career have further contributed to her financial success.
