After days of speculation, the truth behind the high-profile breakup of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver has finally come out. Divorce attorneys in Pasadena and celebrity journalists alike were stunned to learn on Monday that Schwarzenegger fathered a child with a longtime household staffer.
The former governor of California and action star released an exclusive statement this week wherein he admits to fathering a child more than a decade ago.
"After leaving the governor's office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a decade ago," Schwarzenegger said Monday night in a statement issued to the Los Angeles Times. "I understand and deserve the feelings of anger and disappointment among my friends and family. There are no excuses and I take full responsibility for the hurt I have caused. I have apologized to Maria, my children and my family. I am truly sorry. I ask that the media respect my wife and children through this extremely difficult time," the statement concluded. "While I deserve your attention and criticism, my family does not."
Maria Shriver, according to reports, no longer lives in the family's high-priced Brentwood home. She moved out after Arnold told her about fathering the child. Meanwhile, the mistress and mother of the child worked for the Schwarzeneggers for 20 years before retiring in January. At the time of retirement, the woman told the L.A. Times, "I wanted to achieve my 20 years, then I asked to retire." She reportedly received a severance package from the family and "left on good terms with them." Schwarzenegger has taken financial responsibility for the child since birth and continues to do so.
Shriver also released a statement on Tuesday morning saying, "This is a painful and heartbreaking time. As a mother, my concern is for the children. I ask for compassion, respect and privacy as my children and I try to rebuild our lives and heal. I will have no further comment."