“After leaving the governor’s office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a decade ago,” Schwarzenegger told the Los Angeles Times Monday night. “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.”
The admission is reportedly one of the major reasons Shriver and Schwarzenegger split last week. The two have been married for 25 years and have four children together, ages 14, 18, 20 and 21.
"This is a painful and heartbreaking time," said Shriver, 55, in a statement to People. "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 household staff member and her child have not been identified. The woman reportedly left employment from the household in January, after 20 years of employment.
Schwarzenegger was accused of having a history of groping women when he ran for the governor seat in 2003, during which time Shriver supported him. He later admitted that he "behaved badly sometimes."
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