Schwarzenegger051211_01_dad.jpgIn a statement to The Los Angeles Times Monday night, former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger admitted that he had fathered a child with a member of his household staff ten years ago.

The paternity was kept a secret from the first lady, Maria Shriver, but she found out about it earlier this year, and promptly moved out of their Brentwood, Calif., mansion. The couple announced their separation last week.

The staff member worked for the family for 20 years before retiring in January. During those years, she claimed that the child's father was her husband. Schwarzenegger said:

    "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. ... 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 reportedly took full financial responsibility for the child. The former governor's fidelity came into question in 2003, when more than a dozen women said he had groped them over a period of years. At first, he denied the allegations, then apologized. Shriver stood by his side.