Maria Shriver is a prominent figure in American media, politics, and philanthropy — but she’s also a woman whose life story is deeply woven into U.S. history. As of 2025, Maria Shriver’s net worth is estimated at $200 million, thanks to decades of success as a journalist, author, television producer, and a key member of the Kennedy political dynasty. At 69 years old, Shriver continues to influence public discourse, advocate for women’s and Alzheimer’s issues, and maintain strong ties to her powerful lineage.
Born Into American Royalty
Maria Owings Shriver was born on November 6, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, into one of the most influential families in American history. Her father, Sargent Shriver, was a prominent politician and founding director of the Peace Corps. Her mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, was the sister of President John F. Kennedy, making Maria the niece of not just JFK but also Senators Robert F. Kennedy and Ted Kennedy.
This deep political heritage meant that from a young age, Maria witnessed both the privileges and tragedies of public life, including JFK’s assassination when she was just eight years old. Raised in a devout Catholic household, Maria attended high school in Maryland and later graduated with a degree in American Studies from Georgetown University.
From Newsroom to National Voice
Shriver began her journalism career at KYW-TV in Philadelphia, but quickly rose through the ranks of national media. She became co-anchor of “CBS Morning News” and later joined NBC News, where she held long-term roles on programs like “Sunday Today” and “Dateline NBC.”
Throughout her career, Shriver earned numerous accolades, including Emmy and Peabody Awards, and was widely respected for her serious coverage of women’s issues and social topics. After stepping back from news to serve as California’s First Lady during Arnold Schwarzenegger’s governorship (2003–2011), she later rejoined NBC in 2013 as a special anchor focusing on women’s empowerment and mental health.
In addition to journalism, she’s an accomplished author, having penned multiple bestsellers, including “I’ve Been Thinking…” and “Ten Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Went Out Into The Real World.” She also launched The Sunday Paper, a digital platform that blends personal insight with thought leadership on current events.
Marriage, Family, and High-Profile Divorce
Maria Shriver married Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1986, and the pair became one of America’s most recognizable power couples. They have four children together:
- Katherine Schwarzenegger (b. 1989) – Author and lifestyle blogger, now married to actor Chris Pratt
- Christina Schwarzenegger (b. 1991) – Producer and mental health advocate
- Patrick Schwarzenegger (b. 1993) – Actor and model
- Christopher Schwarzenegger (b. 1997) – University of Michigan graduate
The couple’s marriage ended in 2011 after it was revealed Arnold had fathered a child outside the marriage with their longtime housekeeper. Their divorce was finalized in 2017, and Maria was reportedly awarded up to $200 million as part of the settlement, given Arnold’s considerable net worth and real estate holdings. The divorce was amicably resolved, with shared custody of their two youngest children at the time.
Kennedy Wealth & Inheritance
Shriver’s net worth isn’t solely the result of her media career. As a direct descendant of the Kennedy family, she receives substantial income from trusts and inherited assets. Public documents show that she receives income from Vornado Realty Trust and Vornado Realty Inc., each valued at $7.5 million.
Since 1998, the Kennedy family is believed to have received more than $170 million in dividends, much of which is structured to avoid heavy capital gains taxes. The family’s strategic use of investment partnerships helps preserve and grow their generational wealth.
Real Estate Holdings
Maria has been highly active in the Los Angeles real estate market, especially after her split from Schwarzenegger. In 2002, she and Arnold purchased a $4.8 million estate in Brentwood, featuring 14,500 square feet, a pool, tennis courts, and ocean views. After their separation, Arnold remained in the estate.
Maria later purchased her own 11,000-square-foot home in Brentwood for $10 million, located not far from their former shared residence. In 2022, she expanded her holdings by buying the adjacent property for $12.2 million — giving her substantial privacy and real estate value in one of L.A.’s most prestigious neighborhoods.
She’s also been known to assist her children in home-buying. In 2017, Maria reportedly began looking for two homes, collectively worth $5 million, as gifts for her children after they graduated from college — a sign of her continued support and close family bonds.
Current Life & Philanthropy
Though no longer in the political spotlight, Maria Shriver remains deeply engaged in philanthropy and advocacy. She was the executive producer of HBO’s “The Alzheimer’s Project”, and has been a long-standing champion for Alzheimer’s awareness and funding — a cause that’s deeply personal to her due to her father’s battle with the disease.
She continues to publish The Sunday Paper, speak at global conferences, and maintain her role as a public voice for mental health, women’s equality, and social change.
Maria’s personal life today includes a long-term relationship with Matthew Dowd, a political strategist who once worked on Schwarzenegger’s campaign.
Final Thoughts
Maria Shriver’s journey reflects resilience, transformation, and a lifetime of high-profile roles in both public and private life. As of 2025, her $200 million net worth reflects not only her Kennedy inheritance but her accomplishments as a journalist, author, producer, and advocate. At 69, she remains a force in media and a legacy figure in American politics — not just because of her last name, but because of how she’s chosen to carry it.