After more than a decade of speculation, Maria Shriver was seen out and about this week with political consultant Matthew Dowd — the man many have linked to her romantically since 2013.
The pair enjoyed a casual stroll through Los Angeles, looking close and comfortable together.
A Casual Walk with a Familiar Face
At 69, Maria — the renowned journalist and former wife of Arnold Schwarzenegger — kept it simple and chic in a white tee and leggings, while Dowd, 64, matched the relaxed vibe.
Their easy-going walk caught the attention of fans familiar with their longstanding friendship and past romantic rumors.
Matthew Dowd’s Political Background
Dowd is no stranger to the political scene. He was a key strategist for George W. Bush during his 2000 and 2004 presidential campaigns, and part of Bush’s inner circle until their split over the Iraq War in 2006.
Interestingly, Dowd also worked on Schwarzenegger’s reelection campaign when the actor was Governor of California, tying him closely to Shriver’s former life.
The Kennedy Connection and Past Marriages
Maria comes from a storied political family — she’s the niece of Robert F. Kennedy and President John F. Kennedy.
Her 25-year marriage to Schwarzenegger ended after his affair with their housekeeper came to light in 2011, revealing he fathered a child, Joseph Baena, with her.
Maria and Arnold share four children together.
Dowd’s personal life has seen its share of challenges. He’s been married and divorced twice.
Heartbreak struck when one of his twin infant daughters passed away during his second marriage.
He has two grown sons from his first marriage and a daughter named Josephine from his second.
Friendship or More — A Relationship That’s Never Confirmed
Though linked romantically for years, Maria and Matthew have never publicly confirmed a relationship.
They have appeared together at family events, including her cousin Bobby Kennedy Jr.’s wedding in 2014.
Maria’s Thoughts on Love and Being Single in Her 60s
In a candid June interview on Today with Jenna & Friends, Maria reflected on her decade of singledom during her 60s.
“I loved being single, but other people had a big problem with it,” she admitted, adding how friends and family often ask why she doesn’t have a boyfriend or if she’s open to love.
She shared her mindset openly: “I’m interested in any great love experience…
That’s a yes. I’m kind of trying to be open and yes to life in all its forms. How about that?”
Open to Love but Focused on Fulfillment
That same month, on the Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast, Maria revealed she’s open to romance but isn’t actively searching.
“I’m not looking, but I’m open to whatever God sends my way,” she said.
“I have a beautiful life that I’m deeply grateful for, and that feels really good and really full and full of love.”
Her kids even joke about setting her up with a dating app, but Maria is content with where she is in life, emphasizing how much personal growth it’s taken to reach this point.