Shriver and Schwarzenegger divorce: Ah-nold’s ‘Junior’ led to split
The reason for political power couple Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver’s recent separation after 25 years of marriage was revealed today in the LA Times — Schwarzenegger fathered a love child with a member of his household staff.
In a turn that seems to take a page from John Edward’s political playbook, Schwarzenegger, 63, the former Republican governor of California, admitted to the affair, which happened over a decade ago, and the birth of the child (so far, the sex and name of the child as well as the title and name of the staffer have not been released). The LA Times reports that the staffer retired from the Schwarzenegger / Shriver household in January, after 20 years of service.
The staffer initially told the LA Times the child was fathered by her ex-husband. She later recanted this statement. Earlier this year, she told the paper "I wanted to achieve my 20 years, then I asked to retire," she said, about leaving the employment of the Schwarzenegger/Shriver household. She also claims she, "left on good terms with them."
Schwarzenegger reportedly supported the child financially and continues to do so.
"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 Times in response to questions. "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. "
In a response to the news, Shriver issued this statement on Tuesday: “This is a painful and heartbreaking time," said Shriver, 55. "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."
Schwarzenegger and Shriver have four children together, ages 14, 18, 20 and 21.
