Arnold Schwarzenegger acknowledges fathering lovechild with staffer

Arnold Schwarzenegger, former Governor of California, revealed Monday night that he had fathered a child 10 years ago with a household staff member.

In a statement to The Times, Schwarzenegger confirmed that after leaving the governor's office he told his 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.

The acknowledgement of paternity has apparently prompted his wife, Maria Shriver, to leave the couple's home before officially announcing their plans for divorce to the public.

On May 9, 2011, the couple made a joint announcement that they were ending their 25 years of marriage.

Although the name of the former staffer or details about the love-child has not been published by The Times, it has been confirmed that the child was born before Arnold started his period as a Governor. Moreover, his marriage with Shriver has long been a subject of public interest particularly after allegations of sexual and personal misconduct were raised against him during his initial campaign for governor.

Taking full financial responsibility of the child, the former governor has requested for privacy asking the media to respect my wife and children through this extremely difficult time. While I deserve your attention and criticism, my family does not.