Arnold Schwarzenegger has revealed the sweet nickname his grandchildren lovingly call him — and it’s as charming as you’d expect.
The 76-year-old actor and former California governor is a proud grandfather to two granddaughters, Lyla Maria, 3, and Eloise Christina, 16 months, whom he shares through his daughter Katherine. In a recent interview with PEOPLE while promoting his upcoming book Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life, Schwarzenegger shared that his grandkids call him “Opa,” the German word for grandfather.
Schwarzenegger says being a grandparent has been pure joy, especially because of the animals on his property, which quickly became a major attraction for the girls. According to him, the first thing Lyla asks when visiting is about Cherry, his small puppy. Once Cherry appears, Lyla happily sits with the dog on her lap, making visits to “Opa’s house” something she eagerly looks forward to.
Beyond Cherry, Schwarzenegger’s home is filled with animals, including a pig named Schnelly, a miniature horse named Whiskey, and a mini donkey called Lulu. Lyla enjoys feeding and interacting with each of them, often joining her grandfather on walks to the stables to see the horses.
The pair even bond over baking — though not in the usual way. Schwarzenegger makes special oatmeal-and-honey cookies designed specifically for the animals, which Lyla eagerly helps hand out.
Schwarzenegger has previously shared his surprise at how deeply his grandchildren have embraced his lifelong love of animals, something he credits to growing up on a farm in Austria. He admits the animals have also become the perfect excuse to ensure his grandchildren visit often — and happily.
Schwarzenegger says the role of “Opa” has given him a renewed sense of purpose, adding that time with his grandchildren has become one of the most meaningful and grounding parts of his life.
