Sam Nivola has opened up about the emotional experience of attending his White Lotus costar Patrick Schwarzenegger’s wedding, calling the actor “an amazing person” and reflecting on the deep bond they share.
Patrick, the son of Hollywood legend Arnold Schwarzenegger and journalist Maria Shriver, recently tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Abby Champion in a breathtaking ceremony at Grozzer Ranch in Idaho. The wedding, held on September 6, 2025, marked the culmination of nearly a decade-long relationship that began back in 2015.
The celebration drew attention not only because of Patrick’s famous lineage but also because of the star-studded guest list. Among those present were his White Lotus family, including Sam Nivola, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Jason Isaacs, who gathered to support him on his big day.
Speaking with Etalk at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this month, Sam recalled how meaningful the experience was for him personally. He attended the wedding alongside his girlfriend, actress Iris Apatow, and described the day as overwhelming in the best way.
“He’s like almost 10 years older than me, but seeing him get married I felt like I was watching my son get married or something,” Sam confessed, his words highlighting just how surreal the milestone felt for him.
The young actor went on to praise Patrick not only as a friend but as a role model. “He’s such an amazing person. Every day he grows so much, and I look up to him so much and I learned so much from him,” Sam said. His admiration for Patrick’s character was evident as he spoke warmly about the lessons he has taken from their friendship.
Sam also emphasized how fortunate he feels to have crossed paths with Patrick during their time filming White Lotus. “We’re just so lucky to have each other, and that we had each other on that shoot that was so, so long,” he reflected. Their bond, formed on set, clearly extended far beyond the cameras.
The heartfelt comments come at a time when Patrick’s career is also flourishing. Known for roles in Grown Ups 2 and The Staircase, Patrick has carved out his own identity in Hollywood, distinct from his father’s action-hero legacy. His marriage to Abby Champion, a model and entrepreneur, marks yet another exciting chapter in his personal journey.
Read More: Kate Middleton Forced Into Harsh Royal Reality as Experts Warn of Her Future Duties
Sam Nivola, meanwhile, has been making waves of his own. The actor, who starred in Netflix’s The Perfect Couple, continues to build a reputation as one of Hollywood’s rising stars. His emotional openness about Patrick’s wedding shows a more vulnerable side to the rising talent.
Their bond on White Lotus was another special part of their journey together. Sam portrayed Lochlan Ratliff, the younger brother of Patrick’s character, Saxon Ratliff, in the show’s third season. Their on-screen sibling dynamic now mirrors the real-life closeness that Sam so clearly treasures.
Industry insiders have noted how rare it is for young actors to speak so candidly and affectionately about their colleagues, and Sam’s words have only strengthened the perception that Patrick has become a well-respected figure among his peers.
As fans continue to celebrate Patrick and Abby’s new chapter together, Sam’s emotional tribute adds yet another layer of sweetness to the fairytale wedding. It highlights not just a union between two people, but the support of a community of friends and collaborators who were there to witness it.
For Sam, watching Patrick step into married life was more than just attending a wedding — it was seeing someone he deeply respects move into a new stage of happiness. His reflections prove that Hollywood friendships, often seen as fleeting, can sometimes grow into bonds that feel like family.
The wedding may have been Patrick’s moment, but Sam’s heartfelt words remind fans that love, admiration, and support are just as important in Hollywood as in any other walk of life.
