Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis Among Inductees to California Hall of Fame

Olympians, a chef, and a legislator also honored for their contributions to the state

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Several high-profile Californians, including actors Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis, as well as Olympic medalists, a renowned chef, and a longtime state legislator, were announced as the 19th class of inductees to the California Hall of Fame.

Why it matters

The California Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and had a lasting impact on California's culture, communities, and reputation. The diverse group of inductees highlights the breadth of talent and achievement that has emerged from the Golden State.

The details

The inductees include Schwarzenegger and Curtis, who starred together in the film "True Lies", as well as Olympic gold medalists Janet Evans and Carl Lewis, chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, the all-female mariachi ensemble Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, longtime legislator John L. Burton, author Riane Eisler, and writer Terry McMillan. The honorees will be recognized at a ceremony at the California Museum in Sacramento on March 19.

  • The 19th class of the California Hall of Fame inductees was announced on March 4, 2026.
  • The induction ceremony will take place on March 19, 2026.

The players

Arnold Schwarzenegger

A world champion bodybuilder, Hollywood icon, successful businessman, environmentalist, philanthropist, best-selling author, and the 38th governor of California.

Jamie Lee Curtis

An Oscar-winning actress, passionate humanitarian, Emmy and Golden Globe winner, and best-selling children's book author.

Janet Evans

An Olympic medalist swimmer who currently serves as chief athlete officer for the 2028 Olympic Games.

Carl Lewis

An Olympic champion track star.

Nobuyuki Matsuhisa

A chef whose Nobu and Matsuhisa restaurants have changed the way the world eats.

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What they’re saying

“From the state Capitol to Los Angeles, from bestselling books to Olympic triumphs, the inductees of the 19th class of the California Hall of Fame have reshaped our culture and our communities. Resilient and innovative, these leaders and luminaries represent the best of the California spirit.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (City News Service)

“This year's class embodies the very best of California — creativity, resilience, and a spirit of community. These honorees remind us that innovation and courage flourish when people are lifted up by those around them. With deep ties to Los Angeles — a city whose influence and imagination continue to shape culture worldwide — their stories not only celebrate individual achievement, but also reflect California's power to inspire, to open doors, and to reimagine what is possible for generations to come.”

— Jennifer Siebel Newsom, First Partner of California (City News Service)

What’s next

The inductees will be formally recognized at a ceremony at the California Museum in Sacramento on March 19, 2026.

The takeaway

The diverse group of California Hall of Fame inductees, spanning entertainment, sports, politics, and culinary arts, highlights the state's rich cultural heritage and its ability to produce world-class talent that has had a lasting impact on the nation and the world.