Schwarzenegger, Shriver separate after 25 years of marriage

Actor and former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and wife of 25 years Maria Shriver have separated, the Los Angeles Times reports.

The couple have released a statement addressing the separation, requesting privacy from press:

“This has been a time of great personal and professional transition for each of us,” the statement read. “After a great deal of thought, reflection, discussion and prayer, we came to this decision together. At this time, we are living apart while we work on the future of our relationship. We are continuing to parent our four children together. They are the light and the center of both of our lives. We consider this a private matter and neither we nor any of our friends or family will have further comment. We ask for compassion and respect from the media and the public.”

Schwarzenegger has intimated that a return to films is in his future, but in a YouTube video posted late in March, Shriver appeared without her wedding ring and asked:

“I’d like to hear from other people in transition,” Shriver said. “How did you get through it? What were three things that enabled you to get through your transition?”

The couple marked their 25th wedding anniversary on April 26th.