Arnold Schwarzenegger admits to having a child with member of household staff

Last week news broke that former Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife Maria Shriver were separating.

To add to that the shocking news that Schwarzenegger fathered a child with a member of the household staff was revealed today. When Shriver, a broadcast journalist, was informed about this, she split with her husband. She and Schwarzenegger have four children together.

According to reports, Schwarzenegger fathered the child with a member of the household staff more than a decade ago. Schwarzenegger confirmed the paternity. The employee had retired in January after 20 years with the family, reports the Los Angeles Times.

After leaving the governor's office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a decade ago. 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, Schwarzenegger said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times.

He added, 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.

Schwarzenegger also admitted he provided for the child financially. Shriver's spokesman said that Shriver had no comment.