Following Rumours And Jokes, Chris Rock And Malaak Compton-Rock Head For Divorce

We’ve known Chris Rock as a family man for most of his career – but he’s always gone for the “reluctant husband” bit onstage. Turns out, it wasn’t just his persona. After twenty years of marriage, the comedian and his wife, Malaak Compton-Rock, are getting a divorce.

In her statement, Malaak, a philanthropist and the founder of the nonprofit styleWorks claimed that she is trying to look on the bright side and count her blessings. She gave the following quote for People: "While recognizing that this is a significant change, my children remain at the center of my life and their well-being is my top priority. It is in this spirit that I sincerely ask that their privacy and the privacy of our family be respected during this transition in our lives."

More: Chris Rock Reveals Top Five Is Closely Modelled On Real Life Comics

According to People, the comedian’s lawyer, Robert S. Cohen has confirmed the news and urged Rock’s fans to respect the family’s privacy.

"Chris Rock has filed for divorce from his wife, Malaak," Cohen said in a statement. "This is a personal matter and Chris requests privacy as he and Malaak work through this process and focus on their family.”

More: Chris Rock Reflects On The Passing Of Iconic Comedians Joan Rivers And Robin Williams

The Top Five star, 49, wed Compton-Rock, 45, in 1996. They live in Alpine, New Jersey, with their two daughters together, Lola Simone, 12, and Zahra Savannah, 10. Through the years, they’ve repeatedly had to defend their marriage against rumours of disagreements and infidelity.