Tamil movie actor-producer Dhanush and director wife Aishwaryaa surprised many recently by announcing that they have called it quits on their marriage.

The couple announced the news in a joint-statement released on their respective social media accounts, which read, “18 years of togetherness as friends, couple, as parents, and well-wishers to each other The journey has been of growth, understanding, adjusting, and adapting. Today, we stand at a place where our paths separate.”

“Aishwaryaa and I have decided to part ways as a couple and take time to understand us as individuals for the better.”

The couple also expressed hope that the fans would respect their decision and give them the privacy to deal with their divorce.

The “Atrangi Re” actor tied the knot with Aishwaryaa, the eldest daughter of superstar Rajinikanth on 18 November 2004. They have two sons, Yatra and Linga.

On the other hand, the actor is currently busy filming several movies and promoting others, including Karthick Naren’s “Maaran”, as well as the upcoming Anthony and Joe Russo film, “The Gray Man”, to be streamed by Netflix.