Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver separate

A spokesman for Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Monday that he has separated from his wife, Maria Shriver after 25 years of marriage.

The announcement, which came from the couple in a written statement said that despite their decision to live apart, they would continue to parent their four children together.

There was a time during Arnold’s 8 years as Governor when the family was strained by his prolonged absence from the home. With an international career now in motion after the end of his time in office, and a return to movies, the Schwarzenegger family is changing yet again.

Maria Shriver, who is part of the Kennedy dynasty, left her job as an NBC news correspondent when Arnold took office in 2003. During his two terms she remained active, organizing many events, including the annual women's conference.

Both Arnold and Maria have high ambitions, and have contributed immensely with their long and successful careers in the public spotlight. whatever steps they choose to pursue next, will hopefully one day, bring them back together.

Statement from Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver

"This has been a time of great personal and professional transition for each of us…After a great deal of thought, reflection, discussion, and prayer, we came to this decision together."