Billie Piper and her husband Laurence Fox have announced their separation after being married for nine years.
The news of their split came via a Facebook post on actor-musician Laurence's official Facebook page, in which he told fans that the couple planned to go their separate ways, but that they would appreciate privacy. The statement also went on to confirm that there were no 'third parties' involved in the decision to split.
The official post read, 'Laurence Fox and Billie Piper have separated. No third parties are involved.
'For the sake of our family we request and appeal for space and privacy at this time'
Fans were quick to respond with well wishes and messages of sadness. One fan Chrissy Longworth said, 'sad ! Hope you are both allowed the grace and dignity of peace while you figure the future out... May it not dull the songbird in you both.'
While Starry Neilclan said, 'So sorry to hear this news. Both of you take care of yourselves.'
The couple, who have two children together, Winston, seven and Eugene, three, married in 2007 and have always appeared to be a strong unit. Regularly photographed together, they've often spoken about each other fondly in interviews.
Most recently Laurence was quoted in the Daily Express as saying his perfect night would be, 'Sitting next to my wife, watching telly, taking it easy with a glass of wine and a Thai chilli and basil stir-fry chicken.
'That's one of my signature dishes, so I cook it. But she's a great cook, too.'
The couple got together after they both performed in a stage production of Christopher Hampton's Treats and are reported to have fallen in love immediately with one another.
When questioned about his belief in love at first sight Laurence said he 'Yes. It absolutely happened when I met Bill.'
Billie has been married once before, to TV and radio presenter Chris Evans. The former couple got together after just six months of dating and split following three years of marriage.
At the time of her divorce Billie told The Radio Times stated that she wouldn't claim any of Chris' reported £50 million fortune, saying, 'I'm not taking a penny from him. I think that's disgusting.'
Many at the time reported that the couple's age difference was the reason for the split, with Billie being 16 years younger than Chris.
