Chris Rock and His Wife Call It Quits

Comedian Chris Rock and wife Malaak Compton-Rock have split after 19 years of marriage.

Compton-Rock said in a statement to People.com on Sunday, "After much contemplation and 19 years of marriage, Chris and I have decided to go our separate ways. Being fortunate enough to lead a life of service by working with those most vulnerable makes me well aware of life's blessings, even when faced with difficulties."

She added, "While recognizing that this is a significant change, my children remain at the center of my life and their well-being is my top priority. It is in this spirit that I sincerely ask that their privacy and the privacy of our family be respected during this transition in our lives."

Rock's rep told "Extra," “Chris Rock has filed for divorce from his wife, Malaak. This is a personal matter and Chris requests privacy as he and Malaak work through this process and focus on their family.”

Chris and Malaak met in 1993 and were married in 1996. They have two daughters; Lola Simone, 12, and Zahra Savannah, 10.

Malaak is the Founder and Executive Director of the non-profit organization styleWORKS, which helps women make a successful transition from welfare to the workforce.