Leah Remini is following in her best friend Jennifer Lopez’s footsteps and filing for divorce.
The actress announced this week that she and her husband, Angelo Pagan, are separating after 21 years of marriage.
Leah shared the surprising news with fans on her Instagram page on Thursday evening.
Leah Remini announces divorce from Angelo Pagan
“Well, here we are. After 28 years together and 21 years of marriage, we have decided to file for divorce,” Leah wrote alongside a few photos of herself and Angelo.
He said that the decision to separate was taken amicably and with mutual consent.
He also said that he and Angelo want to remain close friends. This situation reminded many of the “conscious uncoupling” approach preferred by stars such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin.
“Simply put, we both changed, as people change, and we got used to playing roles that no longer suited us,” Leah wrote.
“After a lot of effort and consideration, we have decided to take this step that reflects who we are today. Our relationship is still strong – it has just evolved into something different.”
“But here’s the thing: we’ve been best friends for so many years. We still celebrate holidays together, watch our favorite TV shows together and gather as a family.
“We hope our journey inspires others to see that relationships — even if they change or end — don’t have to fail. We’ll continue to share bits of our lives as we move into this new chapter.”
Leah met Angelo in 1996 when she was just 26 years old.
The couple married in 2003 and their daughter, Sofia Bella Pagan, was born the following year.
Leah receives support from fans
Leah’s followers were clearly saddened by the news of her split, but most were also supportive in their comments.
One user wrote, “Why does this make me so sad? I loved watching your whole family on your reality show. Love you all.”
“I wish you both the best. Moving forward for you both, your first priority is your daughter,” another said.
“28 years is a beautiful, successful marriage no matter what!!” chimed in a third, and added:
“A new chapter of friendship awaits you. Sending love and strength to move forward in this new phase!”
We’ve seen a number of celebrity divorces this year, but few have surprised us as much as this one.
We wish Leah and Angelo all the best as they move into this new phase of their lives.