Mildred Patricia Baena may not be a household name like Arnold Schwarzenegger, but her story made headlines around the world in 2011. As the former housekeeper of the Schwarzenegger family, she was at the center of a major media storm when it was revealed that she had a son with the actor and former California governor. The revelation not only shook Hollywood but also brought Mildred, who had lived a largely private life, into the global spotlight.
While the public has since moved on, there remains considerable curiosity about Baena’s life, particularly her financial standing. What does Mildred Baena do now? How has her life changed since the scandal broke? And perhaps most interestingly—what is Mildred Baena net worth today?
This article will walk you through all the key details: her background, career, financial sources, current lifestyle, and more. We’ll explore how she managed her newfound public attention and the practical aspects of how that fame translated—if at all—into personal wealth. Let’s get into it.
Mildred Baena’s Early Life and Career Journey
Before her name became the subject of tabloids, Mildred Baena lived a relatively quiet and humble life. Born in Guatemala, she later moved to the United States in search of better opportunities. Like many immigrants, Baena worked hard to build a stable life for herself and her family. She eventually found employment in domestic work, a path that would ultimately connect her with one of the most high-profile families in America.
Baena worked for Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver for over 20 years. Throughout those two decades, she was regarded as loyal, discreet, and dedicated to her work. While her tasks primarily involved housekeeping, she became a trusted figure in the household, often considered more like a family member than an employee.
Her long tenure with the Schwarzeneggers wasn’t just a source of stable income—it also provided a degree of social mobility. It’s believed that her salary, along with benefits and bonuses that may have come with working for such an affluent family, contributed to her financial well-being.
Before the news of her affair with Schwarzenegger broke, Baena had already retired from her position in the household. Reports indicate she left the family’s service in January 2011, just months before the public revelation. Since then, her life has changed dramatically, but her foundational years of hard work set the stage for her current financial status.
The Scandal That Changed Everything: How Publicity Affected Her Life
In May 2011, the world was stunned by the news that Arnold Schwarzenegger had fathered a child outside his marriage—and that the mother was none other than the family’s longtime housekeeper, Mildred Baena. The story erupted across media platforms, dominating headlines for weeks and leading to the eventual separation of Schwarzenegger and his wife Maria Shriver.
For Baena, the publicity was a double-edged sword. On one hand, it exposed intimate details of her life that she had worked hard to keep private. On the other hand, it opened doors to financial opportunities she may not have previously considered. However, she chose not to capitalize on the media frenzy by appearing on talk shows or releasing tell-all books. Her silence and refusal to exploit the situation earned her a degree of respect.
That said, the sudden attention did come with some benefits. It is rumored that Arnold Schwarzenegger provided financial assistance for their son, Joseph Baena, which likely extended to Mildred as well. While the details remain private, several sources have speculated that Baena received a settlement or other forms of support to ensure her and her son’s well-being.
Ultimately, the scandal marked a turning point in Baena’s life, propelling her from behind-the-scenes worker to an unexpected public figure. Yet, her decision to step back from the limelight and maintain her privacy suggests a clear focus on stability over fame—something that’s also reflected in how she has managed her finances.
Mildred Baena Net Worth: Estimating Her Financial Worth
So, what is Mildred Baena net worth today? While she hasn’t publicly disclosed her financial details, estimates place Mildred Baena net worth between $500,000 and $1 million. This figure is based on several contributing factors, including her long-term employment with the Schwarzenegger family, any financial support received post-scandal, and potential investments or property ownership.
As a housekeeper in a high-profile household, Baena likely earned a steady and respectable income, particularly over her two-decade tenure. Reports also suggest that she owned a home in Bakersfield, California, which adds to her assets. If she did receive a financial settlement or child support from Schwarzenegger, that too would have had a substantial impact on Mildred Baena net worth.
Moreover, it’s important to recognize that Baena has lived a relatively low-profile lifestyle. She has avoided the extravagant spending that often accompanies sudden media fame. This level-headed approach has likely allowed her to preserve and grow her wealth over time.
Although she never turned to the spotlight for money-making ventures—such as media interviews, reality shows, or memoirs—her financial situation seems stable. Her son, Joseph Baena, is now an actor and bodybuilder forging his own path, which may also alleviate some financial responsibility from her shoulders.