Chris Rock, the "Saturday Night Live" comedian, and his wife Malaak Compton-Rock are ending their 19-year marriage.
"After much contemplation and 19 years of marriage, Chris and I have decided to go our separate ways. Being fortunate enough to lead a life of service by working with those most vulnerable makes me well aware of life's blessings, even when faced with difficulties," Malaak-Compton Rock announced in a statement on Sunday, according to People magazine.
"While recognising that this is a significant change, my children remain at the center of my life and their well-being is my top priority. It is in this spirit that I sincerely ask that their privacy and the privacy of our family be respected during this transition in our lives," she added.
Rock's attorney also confirmed the split adding that the actor/comedian filed for divorce from his wife.
Does the split come as a surprise? Considering Rock's stand-up comedy routine over the years, it doesn't.
In a 2004 interview, just seven years after his marriage with Malaak, he said:
"Marriage is beautiful but if you think you're going to hold onto your individual self, you're an idiot."
Rumors about trouble in paradise have swirled for quite some time. In 2007, the two issued a joint statement claiming their marriage was "solid".
"Though we have tried in the past to take the high road and not comment on the tabloid media, we find it necessary to express on record how unfortunate it is that the Daily News, specifically, and other tabloid outlets have chosen to print rumors and lies about our family and marriage. It is extremely hurtful to us, our children, and our extended family. We remain, as always, very happy and committed to our marriage and the beautiful family that we have built," they explained in the statement.
But despite putting in long years of work, the couple seems to have grown apart. Sources told E!Online that the couple has been living separate lives for quite some time now and have been having marriage problems for years now. Therefore, a divorce was inevitable.
"They care deeply for their kids' well-being and they wanted to wait to make any announcement. They feel this is the best decision for their kids and each other," an insider source told E!Online.
