Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas
Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas have reportedly had marital "issues for a long time".
The Hollywood couple announced yesterday that they were divorcing after 18 years of marriage, but it is believed their romance has been on the rocks for a while.
A source told the New York Post's Page Six column: "Melanie and Antonio have had issues for a long time. They used to be so affectionate with each other, but more recently they've been drifting apart."
Melanie, 56 - who has son Alexander, 29, and daughter Dakota, 24, from previous relationships reportedly agreed to work at her marriage with Antonio, 53, for the sake of their 17-year-old daughter Stella.
Another source explained: "There's been an arrangement in their marriage, for some time, to stay together despite their problems, because of the children and his [Antonio's] Catholic religious beliefs. They have worked hard to keep this split as amicable as possible."
The 'Working Girl' star filed for divorce yesterday citing irreconcilable differences as the reason behind their split.
She is asking for child support and sole physical and joint legal custody of Stella, as well as spousal support.
The former couple, who met on the set of the 1995 film 'Two Much', released a joint statement last night confirming the end of their almost-two decade marriage.
They said: "We have thoughtfully and consensually decided to finalise our almost twenty years marriage in a loving and friendly manner honouring and respecting each other, our family and friends and the beautiful time we have spent together."
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