Maria Shriver has revealed her heartache over the news that her estranged husband Arnold Schwarzenegger fathered a child 10 years ago with a member of staff who worked with their family.
A week after the pair announced their separation, the former governor of California revealed the 10-year secret, the UK’s Daily Mail reported.
Maria found out about her husband’s affair when he left office in January, which led to the pair’s split after 25 years of marriage.
“This is a painful and heartbreaking time,” Maria said in a media release.
“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.”
The pair have four children together: Katherine, 21, Christina, 19, Patrick, 17, and Christopher, 13.
In a statement released to the Los Angeles Times Schwarzenegger said he takes full responsibility for hurting his family.
“After leaving the governor’s office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a decade ago,” he said.
“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 apologised 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. While I deserve your attention and criticism, my family does not.”
Maria is surrounding herself with support following the split with People magazine reporting that she joined Oprah Winfrey, her partner Stedman Graham and Gayle King for dinner in Chicago just before Arnold’s announcement.
The staff member in question has not come forward or been identified.
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