LOS ANGELES (AP) -- In a Hollywood ending fit for one of Tinseltown's biggest stars, hundreds of reporters and fans of actor Arnold Schwarzenegger thronged a hotel ballroom, eagerly awaiting the action hero who vanquished California's governor in Tuesday's recall election.

Supporters of Schwarzenegger let out a cheer as they heard the news that voters had recalled Gov. Gray Davis.

"I think Arnold's the man, because he's an immigrant. My dad was an immigrant too, and came from Mexico. It's always been hard work, get-you-where-you-want-to-go, and I think Arnold understands that," said Gustavo Perez, 32, a Republican from San Diego waiting for Schwarzenegger to appear.

The Austrian-born actor was expected later at the Century Plaza Hotel ballroom, where red, white and blue balloons hung from the ceiling.

Dozens of journalists from around the world choked the ballroom, just as they had at nearly every one of Schwarzenegger's public appearances since he said he would run for governor of the most populous state.

"It's very simple -- there are so many Japanese people who like Arnold Schwarzenegger in movies, so they are very, very interested in this election," said Tatsura Nakae, a reporter for Japan's Nippon TV.

Schwarzenegger's campaign ended as dramatically as it began just two months ago, with his Aug. 6 announcement on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" that he was running. CNN reported Leno was to introduce Schwarzenegger at the party.

Schwarzenegger raised at least $21.5 million for the race, some $10 million of which from his own pocket. But little was free at his party, which featured a cash bar and $5 hotdogs -- apparently the only food available.

(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)