Ian Ziering & Erin Ludwig Split

Ian Ziering, 55, and wife Erin Ludwig are calling it quits after more than nine years of marriage.

The "90210" star made the surprise announcement Thursday. He wrote on Instagram, “It is with a heavy heart that I tell you Erin and I are splitting up.”

“With our hectic work schedules we could not be busier, and over the last few years have grown apart. She is one of the most incredible women I have ever met and the best mom to our kids,” Ian continued. “We ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time as we focus on what is important to us, our girls.”

Ziering also set the record straight on rumors surrounding their relationship. He wrote, “It has come to my attention that things are being written and said to sensationalize a situation that is simply not sensational. Any quote attributed to me is completely false and solely meant by haters to undermine our intention to continue to get along, protect and raise our daughters, and be examples of successful co-parents.”

Erin shared her own statement on Instagram, writing, “I mean, it is kind of hard to choose an announcing your divorce picture, so i just went with my favorite one of myself ? After 9 1/2 years of marriage Ian asked for a divorce. After having asked multiple times I knew it was time to give up. Knowing that I am not the person to make him happy makes the situation feel more peaceful. The girls and I are doing great and finding gratitude and love in our new life together and rebuilding. Thank you to everyone who has been reaching out and I am sorry if I do not get a chance to respond right now. I appreciate your love and the sisterhood of women who surrounds me during this time."

The split comes just a month after their last public appearance as a family, at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas.

Ian and Erin started dating in September 2009. Less than a year later, they were married and expecting their first child.

Ian was previously married to Nikki Schieler Ziering, but they divorced in 2002 after five years of marriage.