People News

Heidi Klum and Seal confirm split

By Eleanor Harley Jan 23, 2012, 15:40 GMT

Heidi Klum and Seal announce their split after almost seven years of marriage. Copyright by Andrew Evans / PR Photos

Heidi Klum and Seal are separating after nearly seven years of marriage.

The couple confirmed the news in an exclusive statement to People magazine.

“While we have enjoyed seven very loving, loyal and happy years of marriage, after much soul-searching we have decided to separate.

"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."

German model Klum started dating Seal in 2004 while she was pregnant to Flavio Briatore, her former partner.

Kiss from a Rose singer Seal was with Klum for the birth of her daughter Leni and he officially adopted her in 2009.

The couple married in May 2005 and have three children, Henry, Johan, and Lou.

38-year-old Klum and 48-year-old Seal renew their vows every year on their anniversary in front of friends and family.

Seal released his album Soul 2 on the 7th November 2011. The lead single, Let’s Stay Together, was released before the album on 30th September 2011.

Klum has been the host, co-producer and judge of Germany’s Next Topmodel since 2006. The next season of the show starts today on Pro7.