Arnold Schwarzenegger pays tribute to 'greatest storyteller' Al Ruddy

Arnold Schwarzenegger has recently paid tribute to Oscar-winning producer Al Ruddy after his death at 94 on May 25 in Los Angeles.

Taking to Instagram on May 28, the Terminator star posted photos of himself and the producer and wrote a heatfelt note for Ruddy in the caption.

"I met him more than 40 years ago, when he was already an icon and I was just starting my film career," began Schwarzenegger.

The True Lies actor said, "He became a dear friend and a mentor. He was always there to give me advice and lead me in the right direction."

Schwarzenegger noted, "People like Al are why I refuse to be called a self-made man. Where would I be without him? My life wouldn’t be what it is without fantastic people like him who have been there every step of the way."

The Commando actor praised Ruddy, calling him "one of the world’s greatest storytellers".

"Whether he was talking about being threatened by real mafia heavy hitters while he was making the Godfather or telling a story about his kids, it didn’t matter," remarked the 76-year-old.

Schwarzenegger revealed he was "inspired by how he worked his ass off while always being there for his family".

"I was inspired . Al showed you really can have everything. He loved his family, and they loved him," stated the Escape Plan actor.

Schwarzenegger mentioned, "When Al talked, everyone listened. Everyone was on the edge of their seat. And by the end, everyone was laughing, because he had the best sense of humour."

"Every time you watch Hogan’s Heroes or the Godfather or Million Dollar Baby or any of the many projects he entertained us with, take a minute to remember Al Ruddy," added the Predator actor.

Schwarzenegger concluded, "I will never forget him. I will miss him dearly, but Al will always be with me. I am filled with gratitude that I had the opportunity to get to know such a great man with such a big heart."