Chris Rock and his wife Malaak Compton-Rock have split after 19 years together. The couple announced the shocking news on Sunday.
"After much contemplation and 19 years of marriage, Chris and I have decided to go our separate ways," Malaak, 45, said in a statement. "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.
The statement continued: "while recognizing 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."
The actor's attorney, Robert S. Cohen, confirmed the break-up in a statement. "Chris Rock has filed for divorce from his wife, Malaak. This is a personal matter and Chris requests privacy as he and Malaak work through this process and focus on their family."
The Madagascar star, 49, and Malaak married in 1996 and they live in Alpine, New Jersey, with their two daughters, Lola Simone, 12, and Zahra Savannah, 10.