Arnold Schwarzenegger Appreciated Secret Child’s Maturity When His Big Secret Was Exposed in Public: “It’s a Very Tough Situation for Him”

The world rocked with shock waves upon hearing the news of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver’s divorce. What was even more baffling was the reason behind their splitting up. Schwarzenegger had an affair with their longtime household help and fathered a child with her. It became a tumultuous time for the Schwarzenegger household as global headlines filled with their names.

While the split was a troublesome phase for Arnold and Maria’s children, it was even more difficult for Arnold’s other son, Joseph. But, the young student acted maturely and handled the situation well.

Arnold Schwarzenegger praised Baena’s approach

Back when the affair of Arnold Schwarzenegger with his maid came to light, the life of a young Joseph Baena changed forever. Joseph was in school, studying in the eighth standard when this news broke. His mother, Mildred Patricia Baena, came to the school to take him home. Joseph was 13 when his world turned upside down. But Joseph handled things in a way much advanced for his age.

During an interview, Arnold praised the way Joseph handled things in a tricky phase. He said, “He’s terrific, and he totally understands the situation. So, it all has worked out. It’s a very tough situation for him. It’s a very tough situation for my kids. Very tough situation for my family. It was tough for everybody. But it has happened, and now we have to figure it out, right?”

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The father-son duo have worked hard on their relationship and have reached a comfortable stage. They are often seen hanging out and even hitting the gym together. Even Arnold’s other two sons have warmed up to Joseph, but the same can’t be said about Schwarzenegger’s daughters.

Joseph did not take Arnold’s surname

Growing up with tough beginnings, Joseph’s life has been a rollercoaster ride. A day after Arnold’s tenure finished as the California Governor, the truth about Baena’s identity came forth. It has since been tough going for the 24-year-old.

But Baena had the opportunity to make his life easier by taking on the ‘Schwarzenegger’ surname. Joseph denied taking it and takes pride in the Baena surname. Justifying his act, Joseph said his father is old school and does not believe in handouts- a feeling he shares. Baena loves the meaning of honor and wonders where the honor would be if he used his father’s contacts or his name to get things done. He wants to make a name for himself and wants people to know it is all his hard work.

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Although born out of wedlock, Baena shares various characteristics with his biological father. The two spent years apart before realizing they shared a deeper connection than met the eye. Much like his father, Joseph is also a bodybuilder-actor, looking to make it big on his terms.