Maria Shriver's Real Name: Maria Owings Shriver
Maria Shriver → Maria Owings Shriver
Quick answer: Maria Shriver's real name is Maria Owings Shriver. She was born on November 6, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, daughter of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Sargent Shriver.
Birth name and family
JFK Hyannis Museum and California governors' first-lady records list Maria Owings Shriver (JFK Hyannis Museum; CA Governors archive; TV Guide bio). Owings is her middle name (from family). She is a niece of President John F. Kennedy and a member of the extended Kennedy family through her mother Eunice.
She became a network television journalist (CBS, NBC), known for news magazine work and specials.
California, books, and advocacy
As wife of Arnold Schwarzenegger she served as First Lady of California (2003–2011). She has written bestselling books including children's titles and women's nonfiction, and is a leading public advocate for Alzheimer's research following her father's illness. After her divorce from Schwarzenegger she continued journalism, producing, and philanthropy under her birth name Maria Shriver.
Maria Shriver books (e.g. I've Been Thinking...) children's books by Maria Shriver Alzheimer's advocacy related nonfiction
FAQ
What is Maria Shriver's real name?
Maria Owings Shriver.
When was she born?
November 6, 1955, in Chicago.
Who are her parents?
Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Sargent Shriver.
Was she First Lady of California?
Yes, 2003–2011, during Arnold Schwarzenegger's governorship.
Is Shriver a married name?
No—Shriver is her birth surname; Owings is her middle name.
What is she known for besides politics?
Network journalism, authorship, and Alzheimer's advocacy.
Sources
Further reading: Wikipedia