Nicholas Sparks and his wife Cathy have reportedly split after 25 years of marriage.
The best-selling author, known for penning books including The Notebook and Safe Haven, broke the news to People.
He said: “Cathy and I have separated. This is, of course, not a decision we’ve made lightly.
“We remain close friends with deep respect for each other and love for our children. For our children’s sake, we regard this as a private matter.”
The couple, who got married in 1989, have five children together – three sons and twin daughters.

Nicholas and Cathy at the Safe Haven premiere.