* Action stars: They both rose to fame in the action genre, known for their physicality and martial arts skills.
* Bodybuilders: They both have extensive backgrounds in bodybuilding, which contributed to their muscular physiques and action hero image.
* Foreign-born: They both emigrated to the United States from Europe (Schwarzenegger from Austria, Van Damme from Belgium).
* Governors: Although not at the same time, both Schwarzenegger and Van Damme have served as governors: Schwarzenegger of California and Van Damme of the Belgian province of West Flanders (in the Belgian film "JCVD").