Singer Jake Quickenden has been flooded with support after revealing he and wife Sophie Church have "unfortunately separated".
The former X Factor star, 37, said he has had a "tough few months" as he opened up about the split, saying the pair tried to keep it private so they could "navigate it properly" but that was "taken out of our hands" by recent speculation that their relationship had broken down.
Quickenden shared a family photo on social media on Tuesday night of himself with his wife of four years, her son Freddie, and their children Leo and Kit.
Beneath the post, he told his one million followers: "Thought maybe I should tell you what's going on right now.
"Me and Sophie have unfortunately separated. It’s been a few months now, tried to keep it private for us to come to terms with it and navigate it properly, as it also involves our beautiful children.
"But sometimes things are taken out of our hands.
"I guess it’s kinda hypocritical from my side, sharing my life on social media but then wanting privacy in a super hard moment. But we did just want to deal with it together."
Quickenden praised Church as an "amazing person and mother" as he recalled sharing "some very special moments together", adding he has "respect and love" for her.
The TV star, also known for his stint on I’m A Celebrity, said: "Unfortunately, as a couple, we just grew apart and it became hard to function together."
He added: "I hope we both find our happiness, I know we both deserve that.
"Many times in breakups people expect a huge reason, this isn’t like that. It’s two people growing apart and realising that happiness rests its head somewhere else."
Quickenden concluded the post by saying he is focused on their children, and said he hopes they will be "co-parenting in a healthy, loving way", adding he wants "nothing but the best for Sophie".
Fans and celebrities voiced their support on the post, with former Made in Chelsea star Georgia Toffolo writing: "This wonderful mindset will be amazing for your special children."
Former The Only Way is Essex star Ferne McCann also offered her well-wishes, and commented many heart emojis and said: "Sending love to you all."
Singer and actress Daisy Wood-Davis said: "Gorgeous family and you always will be that, a family! Sounds like you’re doing things right xxx."
Quickenden rose to fame after starring on ITV singing competition The X Factor in 2012, and returned to the show for a brief stint in 2014.
He has also appeared on shows including Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins and Celebrity MasterChef, and has had a successful career starring in musical theatre productions.
Source: Press Association
