Life sometimes writes stories that sound stranger than fiction. One such story belongs to Rogelio Baena, a man who lived an ordinary life until fate placed him at the center of one of Hollywood’s most shocking scandals. Once a loving husband and father, Rogelio’s world was turned upside down when he discovered that the child he had raised for years was not biologically his — and that the boy’s real father was none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger.
This article takes you through the emotional and heartbreaking journey of Rogelio Baena, his relationship with Mildred Patricia Baena, and how he found the strength to move forward after one of the most painful revelations a man could face.
Rogelio Baena: Quick Overview
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Full Name: Rogelio de Jesús Baena
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Known For: Ex-husband of Mildred Patricia Baena
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Nationality: Colombian-American
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Birth Year: 1950s
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Age (as of 2025): Around 70 years
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Profession: Businessman
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Ethnicity: Colombian descent
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Ex-Wife: Mildred Patricia Baena
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Marriage Year: 1987
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Separation: October 1997
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Divorce Finalized: January 2012
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Children: One daughter (possibly Jackie Rozo)
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Famous Connection: Thought he was the father of Joseph Baena
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Current Status: Living privately
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Residence: Believed to be in the United States
Early Life and Background
Not much is publicly known about Rogelio Baena’s early years. Born in Colombia, he was raised in a close-knit family that valued hard work, respect, and love. It is believed that he pursued studies related to business and lived a modest, private life.
For most of his early adulthood, Rogelio remained out of the limelight, never imagining that his name would one day be linked to one of the most powerful celebrities in the world. His grounded personality and traditional values would later be put to the ultimate test.
How Rogelio Baena Met Mildred Patricia
In the mid-1980s, Rogelio Baena met Mildred Patricia Baena, often known as “Patty.” She was a kind-hearted, hardworking woman who already had children from a previous relationship. The two quickly fell in love and got married in 1987, beginning what seemed to be a stable, loving marriage.
Their relationship was built on trust and family values. Rogelio took on the role of stepfather and helped build a simple but happy household. At the time, he could not have imagined that his wife’s job as a housekeeper would change their lives forever.
Life as a Husband and Family Man
For more than a decade, Rogelio and Mildred shared a life filled with everyday routines and family responsibilities. Mildred worked as a housekeeper for Hollywood superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife, Maria Shriver, in their Brentwood, California home.
Rogelio supported his wife’s work and trusted her completely. He believed that her long employment with a respected family was a sign of her dedication. But behind the scenes, a secret affair was unfolding that would eventually destroy his peace.
The Secret Affair and the Birth of Joseph Baena
During her employment, Mildred Patricia Baena began an affair with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Despite both being married, their secret relationship resulted in a pregnancy. On October 2, 1997, Mildred gave birth to Joseph Baena.
At that time, Rogelio was still married to Mildred, and his name appeared on Joseph’s birth certificate as the father. For years, Rogelio Baena believed Joseph was his son. He raised him with love, pride, and care — unaware that the truth was being hidden from him.
The Shocking Truth Revealed
For nearly 14 years, Rogelio Baena had no idea about the truth. In 2011, the world was stunned when media outlets broke the news that Arnold Schwarzenegger had fathered a child with his long-time housekeeper. Rogelio learned about it the same way the rest of the world did — through the press.
The revelation was devastating. He had built a father-son bond with Joseph, believing him to be his own flesh and blood. In interviews, Rogelio expressed deep pain and betrayal. The shock of discovering the truth not from his wife, but from the media, made the situation even more tragic.
The End of a Marriage
After years of separation, Rogelio Baena and Mildred Patricia Baena officially ended their marriage in January 2012. Although they had been separated since 1997, the divorce took more than a decade to finalize.
In the legal documents, Mildred did not list Rogelio as Joseph’s father, as the truth was now public. Their marriage, once built on love, had been permanently broken by lies and secrets.
Legal Considerations: Did Rogelio Baena Sue Arnold Schwarzenegger?
In 2011, there were reports that Rogelio Baena might take legal action against Arnold Schwarzenegger. The reason was the birth certificate, which listed Rogelio as Joseph’s father despite the truth being otherwise.
Some legal experts suggested that this could be considered falsifying a public document under California law. However, Rogelio never filed a lawsuit. Instead of pursuing legal battles, he chose peace and privacy, preferring to move on with his life.
Where Is Rogelio Baena Now?
Since the scandal, Rogelio Baena has remained out of the public eye. He has stayed silent, living a life away from the chaos of fame and the media. It’s believed that he resides somewhere in the United States, although some reports suggest he may have returned to Colombia.
Rogelio has shown remarkable dignity by not exploiting the situation or seeking public sympathy. His quiet withdrawal reflects a man seeking peace after years of emotional turmoil.
Rogelio Baena’s Relationship With Joseph Today
Despite the heartbreak, Rogelio Baena has spoken with kindness about Joseph. He once said that although the truth hurt deeply, Joseph would always be his son in his heart because he raised him with love.
Joseph Baena, who discovered his true paternity at age 13, has since followed in Arnold’s footsteps, pursuing acting and bodybuilding. Although there is no confirmed contact between Rogelio and Joseph today, the compassion Rogelio showed proves his strength of character and capacity for forgiveness.
FAQs About Rogelio Baena
1. Who is Rogelio Baena?
Rogelio Baena is a Colombian-American businessman best known as the ex-husband of Mildred Patricia Baena, who had a secret child with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
2. How old is Rogelio Baena?
As of 2025, Rogelio Baena is around 70 years old, having been born in the 1950s.
3. Did Rogelio Baena know about Joseph’s real father?
No. Rogelio only found out in 2011 through the media that Joseph’s biological father was Arnold Schwarzenegger.
4. Did Rogelio Baena sue Arnold Schwarzenegger?
While there were reports suggesting possible legal action, Rogelio Baena never filed a lawsuit and chose to stay private.
5. Where is Rogelio Baena now?
He lives a quiet life away from public attention, possibly in the United States or Colombia.
Final Thoughts
The story of Rogelio Baena is not just about betrayal — it’s about resilience, love, and quiet strength. Despite being dragged into a Hollywood scandal, he handled the truth with grace and dignity.
His experience reminds us that even in the face of heartbreak, one can choose compassion over anger. Rogelio Baena may have lost a son by blood, but he remains a father by love — a man who taught the world the true meaning of forgiveness.
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