Heidi Klum and Seal confirm separation

The 38-year-old supermodel, who married the 48-year-old Grammy winner in May 2005, today confirmed to People magazine that they are ending their marital union.

"While we have enjoyed seven very loving, loyal and happy years of marriage, after much soul-searching we have decided to separate”, the couple said in a statement.

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"We have had the deepest respect for one another throughout our relationship and continue to love each other very much, but we have grown apart. This is an amicable process and protecting the well-being of our children remains our top priority, especially during this time of transition.

"We thank our family, friends, and fans for their kind words of support. And for our children's sake, we appreciate you respecting our privacy."

Considering the 'Project Runway' star and the 'Kiss From A Rose' singer renew their vows on their anniversary every year in over-the-top ceremonies surrounded by friends and family, the news of the couple’s official split comes as a great surprise.

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The pair have three children together, Henry, 6, Johan, 5, and Lou, 2, as well as Heidi’s daughter from a previous relationship, Leni, 7, who Seal later adopted.