Actress Martine McCutcheon has announced the news she is splitting from husband of 12 years, Jack McManus.
The 48-year-old Love Actually star issued a lengthy statement on social media on Thursday, explaining McManus, 40, had decided to end the 18-year relationship.
The two frequently appeared together on Celebrity Gogglebox and the actress shares regular updates about her family on social media.
Addressing the sad life update, she wrote on her Instagram Story: “After much thought and consideration, Jack has decided it’s best for us to separate after 18 years together and I accept his decision.
“We are both so very blessed and grateful for our beautiful, 9 year old son Rafferty, who’s happiness and welfare, has always been, and will continue to be, our number 1 priority.” (sic)
She went on to say the pair “look forward” to being parents to their son “for the rest of our lives”.
Martine McCutcheon has announced she and Jack McManus are going their separate ways
Getty
The statement continued: “Whilst this decision has evolved over a period of time, we are still finding our new way forward as a family and kindly ask for some privacy at this time… especially for our little boy.
“Our love for Rafferty, is something that will never, waver, or change and we obviously want to protect him and help him feel as safe and secure as possible.
“Many thanks in advance for your respect and support, at this difficult time… and I continue to send Jack, all the love, luck and happiness for the next chapter of his life.
“Rafferty and I (as always) are rooting for you! Thank you all, for the love and support, now and always… Martine xx.” (sic)
Maritne McCutcheon issued a statement on Instagram announcing her split
The former EastEnders actress has been candid in the past about her marriage, once telling The Sun the pair had endured “ups and downs”.
Speaking in 2022, she told the publication: “Both Jack and I have always been honest we don’t have the perfect relationship by any means.
“We’ve had our ups and downs, like everybody. We’ve had our challenges, but I think ultimately we’re each other’s best friend and when life gets tricky and isn’t always as fabulous it’s good you can have somebody you can talk to and confide in and be all of yourself with, and you know that’s a safe space and they’ve got your back.”
The couple married in 2012 and renewed their vows in September 2022 to mark the 10-year milestone. Their son Rafferty was born in 2015.
McCutcheon has featured in several films but is also well-known for her three-year EastEnders stint as Tiffany Mitchell.
She starred in the BBC soap from 1995 to 1998 until her character was killed when she was run over by Frank Butcher.
She has gone on to star in several films and other television projects as well as landing leading roles on the West End.
McCutcheon has also released some music records, with her debut album released in 1999.