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Robert De Niro has publicly confirmed his spilt from his wife of more than two decades, Grace Hightower, after Page Six exclusively reported that the couple was living separately.

Said De Niro in a statement on Tuesday: “Grace and I have two beautiful children together. We are entering a period of transition in our relationship which is a difficult but constructive process.”

The “Raging Bull” icon added, “I honor Grace as a wonderful mother and ask for privacy and respect from all as we proceed to develop our roles as partners in parenting.”

Sources previously pointed out to Page Six that De Niro had been attending events solo since the summer and buzz spread that the couple was breaking up. Insiders close to the couple then confirmed that De Niro and Hightower were living apart.

They married in 1997 after about a decade of dating, and have two kids together. They first met when Hightower worked at starry eatery Mr. Chow in London.