Reese Witherspoon, Ryan Phillippe Separate

(CBS)  Actress Reese Witherspoon and her husband, actor Ryan Phillippe, have separated, according to statement released by publicist Nanci Ryder.

"We are saddened to announce that Reese & Ryan have decided to formally separate. They remain committed to their family and we ask that you please respect their privacy and the safety of their children at this time," the statement said.

Ryder told The ShowBuzz on Monday that she had nothing more to say about the matter.

Witherspoon, 30, and Phillippe, 32, tied the knot June 5, 1999. They have two children.

They reportedly met at her 21st birthday party. The couple starred together in 1999's "Cruel Intentions."

Phillippe is currently starring in Clint Eastwood's war drama "Flags Of Our Fathers."

In March, Witherspoon received the Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her turn as June Carter Cash in "Walk the Line."

In her acceptance speech she said, "I want to say thank you to my wonderful husband and my two children, who should be going to bed. And thank you for loving me so much and supporting me."

Witherspoon & Reese are one of several celebrity couples who have recently split.

[sabians]

i'm surprised that it lasted this long and I believe Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban is next. I will say that I'm still surprised to see Guy Ritchie and Madonna together. I say that the adopted baby will separate the couple.

[processor2]

Who gives a s--t !!!

I'm not sure which is scarier.....

1) the fact that CBS thinks this is news,,,,OR

2) that some Americans are ignorant enough to think that this is important ???

[conniereh]

Please - can't somebody in Hollywood hold their marriage together!!

[sal567]

I'm sorry Reese and Ryan are separating after seven years, which is quite a record for a Hollywood couple. I wish them well and hope they will find peace and happiness for their own sake as well as their children.