London (CNN) British actor Colin Firth and his Italian wife Livia have separated after 22 years of marriage, according to the couple's publicists.

"Colin and Livia Firth have separated. They maintain a close friendship and remain united in their love for their children," a joint statement from their publicists said.

"They kindly ask for privacy. There will be no further comment," it added.

The couple have two sons, Luca and Matteo.

Colin Firth, 59, is best known for playing famously aloof and reserved characters in movies including "Bridget Jones' Diary," "Pride and Prejudice," " Love Actually " and "The King's Speech."

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