Dancing on Ice judge Ashley Banjo has announced his split from his wife, with whom he shares two children.
Ashley, 33, and dancer Francesca Abbot had been together for 16 years, getting married in 2015.
They separated 18 months ago, they said in a joint statement, adding their focus will be their kids, daughter Rose and son Micah.
The former childhood sweethearts had moved in different directions, they said, but continue to try and be "best friends to each other."
The statement, uploaded to both their Instagram accounts, reads: "After much thought and consideration we both feel now is the time to share some personal news.
"Nearly 18 months ago we took the difficult decision to separate. After being together for over 16 years, since we were teenagers, this is not a decision that has been taken lightly.
"It has not been easy and the processing of the situation has not been fast by any means. But we feel that as we approach the new year it is time to share this news with others.
They went on: "Our main focus will always be our beautiful children.
"Every decision that has been made is to make sure we can continue as a loving family and give the very best of ourselves as parents.
"Raising Rose and Micah in a healthy and happy environment is the most important thing to both of us.
"Sometimes after so many years people just move in different directions, but we do so lovingly and we continue to try and be both the best parents possible and the best of friends to each other.
The pair asked for privacy, saying: "We have always been private with our personal lives, so we kindly ask that everyone please continue to respect that privacy.
"We won't be making any further comment on the situation."
They finished: "Thank you... Lots of Love Ash and Chess x"
The Diversity star and Francesca, who is also a showbiz industry talent manager, tied the knot back on July 4, 2015 after the pair had been dating for 10 years.
Ashley once revealed that he took her to the Science Museum in London for their first date in 2005, writing on Instagram : "14 years ago I couldn't drive, so I took this girl on a date to the science museum to try and make her laugh and impress her with how much I knew about the nerdiest subjects possible instead."
The wed at a beautiful Essex venue with Ashley sharing pictures of the day on social media.
Their first child Rose was born in 2019, and Ashley couldn't hold back his pride on social media, writing: "Our beautiful daughter came into the world at 6.45pm on 21st February 2019 - weighing a healthy 8lbs and 13oz.
"Her name is Rose Adura Banjo. I am in the deepest love ever with my little family."
Their second child, Micah, was born on March 26, 2020.
