Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 12, 2025 · Entertainment

A Decade Later: Maria Shriver Seen with Rumored Love Interest Matthew Dowd

Maria Shriver stepped out with close friend and rumored love interest Matthew Dowd - 12 years after they were first romantically linked

SHRIVER'S SECRET ROMANCE EXPOSED: 69-Year-Old Journalist Steps Out with Close Friend and Rumored Love Interest Matthew Dowd

In a shocking turn of events, Maria Shriver, the ex-wife of Arnold Schwarzenegger and niece of Robert F. Kennedy and President John F. Kennedy, has been spotted strolling hand-in-hand with close friend and rumored love interest Matthew Dowd in Los Angeles. The 69-year-old journalist and TV personality looked stunning as she rocked a casual white tee and leggings while walking alongside the 64-year-old political consultant.

But what's even more intriguing is that this isn't the first time Shriver and Dowd have been linked romantically. A whopping 12 years ago, whispers of their alleged romance began circulating in the media, leaving many to wonder if they were secretly together all along. And now, with Shriver finally embracing her single status, it seems she's open to exploring new possibilities - including a possible romance with Dowd.

Shriver - the niece of Robert F. Kennedy and President John F. Kennedy - was married to Schwarzenegger for 25 years until it was revealed in 2011 that he had an affair with his maid and had fathered a child - Joseph Baena - with her - pictured together 2003

So who is Matthew Dowd, and what makes him so special? For starters, he served as a top strategist for President George W. Bush on both his 2000 and 2004 campaigns, earning him a coveted spot in the president's inner circle until they publicly parted ways over the Iraq war. But that's not all - Dowd also worked for Schwarzenegger himself, taking on a role on the Terminator star's gubernatorial reelection campaign.

Despite his impressive credentials, Dowd's personal life has been marred by tragedy. In 2007, his second marriage ended in divorce after one of his twin infant daughters tragically passed away in the hospital. He has two grown sons from his first marriage and a daughter named Josephine with his second wife.

Meanwhile, Shriver has been open about her own experiences with love and relationships. Just last month, she told the Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast that she was "open" to a new romance, saying, "I'm a frustrated matchmaker myself, and I'm a big believer in relationships and love." And while she's quick to assure fans that she's not looking for love - at least not yet - her words have sparked speculation about a possible connection with Dowd.

The 69-year-old journalist and ex-wife of Arnold Schwarzenegger cut a casual figure as she strolled with the political consultant and pundit, 64, in Los Angeles

The two were spotted together at Shriver's cousin Bobby Kennedy Jr.'s wedding in August 2014, leading some to wonder if their relationship has been ongoing all along. And now, as they continue to spend quality time together, it seems the rumors of a romance may be more than just speculation.

But what about Schwarzenegger? Doesn't he have something to say about Shriver's newfound interest in Dowd? Well, it seems the 73-year-old actor has been keeping quiet on the matter, choosing instead to focus on his post-termination life. And who can blame him? After all, he's got a new role as a grandfather - and maybe even a chance at love himself.

As for Shriver, she remains tight-lipped about her relationship with Dowd, refusing to comment when reached out by thescholarlynote.com. But one thing is clear: this isn't just another celebrity romance - it's a story of second chances, new beginnings, and perhaps even a little bit of love.

Despite being linked for more than a decade, Shriver has never publicly confirmed any new relationship with Dowd

UPDATE: We've reached out to representatives for Maria Shriver multiple times but have yet to hear back. As the story continues to unfold, we'll be keeping a close eye on these two and bringing you all the latest updates. Stay tuned!

The pair looked at ease with one another on their day out

Shriver was enjoying a day out with her close friend

Despite being linked for more than a decade, Shriver has never publicly confirmed any new relationship with Dowd. They attended her cousin Bobby Kennedy Jr.'s wedding together in August 2014 - pictured

The pair were seen looking cozy on an outing back in 2016

Shriver and Schwarzenegger share  Katherine, 35, Christina, 34, Patrick, 31, and Christopher, 27

Schwarzenegger is pictured with son Joseph Baena - who he fathered outside of his marriage to Shriver