Date: 18th May 2011

Maria Shriver Breaks Silence



The former governor's wronged wife hasn't wasted any time in breaking her silence, releasing a statement just hours after news broke that her now estranged husband of 25 years fathered a child with a member of their household staff roughly a decade ago.

"This is a painful and heartbreaking time," the 55-year-old said in a statement to E! News.

"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."

Arnold released his own shockwave-sending statement earlier today, admitting that he cheated on his wife with a longtime member of their household staff. He said that he waited until he left the office of the governor in January of this year before telling his wife.

"I understand and deserve the feelings of anger and disappointment among my friends and family," he said. "There are no excuses and I take full responsibility for the hurt I have caused to Maria, my children and my family."

"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."

Source: Press Release