Patrick Schwarzenegger on surviving Hollywood’s ups and downs

Patrick Schwarzenegger says his faith has helped him deal with the ups and downs of building an acting career. 

Speaking at the Sundance Film Festival, Patrick said the film industry is unpredictable, but faith helps him stay steady no matter what stage his career is in.

"I’m here on this earth for a greater purpose and greater meaning than just working in acting. The film industry is a rollercoaster. I’ve seen it firsthand with my own family members, with friends. What’s really important is that as you go up, down, whichever way you go, your faith is still there," he told Variety.

The White Lotus actor, 32, shared that prayer keeps him grounded and reminds him that his life has a bigger purpose than just acting.

He also shared that he and his wife, model Abby Champion, pray together every day, which he finds calming and meaningful. 

"My prayers are something that helped me each and every day in my life. It’s something that helps me and my wife. We do it together. I think there was some crazy stat of husband and wives that pray together have a 67 per cent less likely to get divorced or separated." 

He continued, "I don’t want to be the person that’s telling everyone to go and pray every day and everything will be okay, but it’s something that is a centre point for my faith and gratitude… It’s a refreshing moment for me in my day."

Patrick added that prayer helps him stay focused on gratitude, even though he doesn’t claim it magically solves everything.

He also addressed criticism that he landed roles because of his famous last name. Patrick called the speculations frustrating, noting he has spent over 10 years training, auditioning, and facing rejection. 

While there are moments he wishes he didn’t have his surname, he says he wouldn’t trade his life or family and is grateful for the values his parents taught him.