Mel Gibson’s wife, Robyn, has filed for divorce from the actor, Access Hollywood has confirmed.
“Throughout our marriage and separation we have always strived to maintain the privacy and integrity of our family and will continue to do so,” the Gibsons said in a joint statement released to Access on Monday.
Robyn signed the divorce papers on Thursday and filed the papers on Monday morning in Los Angeles Superior Court, citing “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split.
However, Access has learned the couple has actually been separated for nearly three years.
Mel and Robyn were married in 1980 after meeting in Australia in 1977.
The couple has seven children — the oldest, Hannah, was born in 1980 and the youngest, Thomas, born in 1999, who is the only minor.
In the divorce papers obtained by Access Hollywood, Robyn is seeking joint physical and legal custody of Thomas. She is also requesting the court grant her spousal support from the actor.
Robyn is also requesting ownership of “miscellaneous jewelry.”
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Mel Gibson
Robyn has reportedly hired Laura Wasser, who has handled other high-profile divorces for celebrities including Angelina Jolie and Britney Spears.
Access has confirmed Mel and Robyn did not have a prenuptial agreement.
According to an article in the December 1, 2008 issue of the National Enquirer, Gibson has a reported net worth of approximately $900 million.
Gibson recently wrapped production on his latest film, “Edge of Darkness,” a murder conspiracy thriller due in theaters in 2010.