Actor Hrithik Roshan released a statement today revealing that he and his wife Sussanne have decided to separate after 12 years of marriage.

The actor has requested media to grant him and his family privacy during these hard times.

“Sussanne has decided to separate from me and end our 17 yr relationship. This is a very trying time for the entire family and I request the media and the people to grant us our privacy at this time. I do not wish this news to disempower my fans and the people about the institution of marriage in any way. I am a firm believer in this institution and respect and honor it at the highest level... And Once again I thank my fans for all the concern and prayers for my health, my treatment is going well and I should be able to resume my life in every way very soon. Thank you,” read the official statement released by Hrithik Roshan.

This news comes after months of speculation regarding the actor’s marriage. The couple hadn't made a public appearance together for almost 3 months. Three months ago it was reported that Sussanne Khan moved out of the Roshan's Mumbai house almost 3 months back after a spat which reportedly turned quite ugly. But the couple had denied the reports.

Hrithik Roshan married Sussanne, the daughter of Bollywood actor Sanjay Khan, on December 20, 2000. The couple has two sons, seven-year-old Hrehaan and five-year-old Hridhaan.