Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Moving Tribute to Danny DeVito at Theater Award Ceremony—The Bond You Didn’t Know About!

On March 10, 2025, Arnold Schwarzenegger presented his longtime friend and co-star Danny DeVito with the prestigious Jason Robards Award for Excellence in Theatre at the Roundabout Theatre Company in New York City. This honor, named after the legendary actor Jason Robards, recognizes outstanding contributions to the world of theatre, and DeVito’s receipt of it highlights his remarkable impact in the industry.

Schwarzenegger, known for his action-packed roles in films like The Terminator, made a special effort to attend the event, taking time away from his busy filming schedule to support his close friend. In a heartfelt Instagram post the following day, Schwarzenegger shared a series of photos from the event, stating, “Last night, I had the opportunity to surprise my brother, @dannydevito, and be there to help present him with the Robards Award for Excellence in Theatre at @roundaboutnyc.” He continued, “It didn’t matter that I filmed all day and had to throw on a jacket and hustle on stage. I had to be there, because he deserves to be celebrated.” The post ended with a poignant message: “Be there for your friends and family.”

The ceremony, held at the Roundabout Theatre Company, a key institution in New York City’s theatre scene, was a fitting venue for this recognition of DeVito’s extensive career. In addition to his iconic roles in film, DeVito has made significant contributions to theatre, cementing his status as a versatile performer. The Jason Robards Award honors not only those with exceptional stage credits but also those whose work bridges multiple mediums, and DeVito’s career exemplifies this distinction.

The connection between Schwarzenegger and DeVito goes beyond the award ceremony and into their long-standing professional relationship, most notably as fraternal twins in the beloved 1988 film Twins. Their on-screen bond has translated into a real-life friendship, and their mutual respect for each other was evident during the ceremony. DeVito’s career, spanning both the stage and screen, has been a source of inspiration for many, and this recognition serves as a well-deserved acknowledgment of his legacy.

This moment was particularly significant given their history of collaboration. In March 2024, the pair reunited at the Oscars to present awards, playfully reminiscing about their roles as Batman villains—DeVito as the Penguin in Batman Returns (1992) and Schwarzenegger as Mr. Freeze in Batman & Robin (1997). Their shared history of collaboration, both in film and through public appearances, strengthens the significance of this theatre award, showcasing their enduring friendship and creative partnership.

The event was widely covered by the media, with outlets like People and AOL reporting on the details, further emphasizing the importance of the moment. People highlighted DeVito’s ongoing collaboration with Schwarzenegger, including potential future projects, such as a script about “just two friends, two guys.” This hints at the continued creative partnership between the two stars, offering fans a glimpse of what might come next in their careers.

As both an actor and a theatre enthusiast, DeVito’s contributions have been integral to the entertainment industry, and receiving the Jason Robards Award for Excellence in Theatre was a fitting tribute to his diverse body of work. With support from friends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has stood by his side for decades, Danny DeVito continues to be celebrated for his immense talent and the lasting impact he has made in both film and theatre.