AceShowbiz - Actress Martine McCutcheon and her singer-songwriter husband, Jack McManus, are going their separate ways after 18 years together. The "Love Actually" star, aged 48, took to Instagram on August 22 to share the emotional announcement.

"After much thought and consideration, Jack has decided it's best for us to separate after 18 years together and I accept his decision," wrote McCutcheon.

The couple, who tied the knot in September 2012 at Lake Como in Italy, are parents to their nine-year-old son, Rafferty. "We are both so very blessed and grateful for our beautiful, nine-year-old son Rafferty, whose happiness and welfare has always been, and will continue to be, our number one priority," McCutcheon emphasized in her post.

She added, "We both, of course, still cherish and look forward to being parents together to our wonderful boy for the rest of our lives."

The English actress, who also celebrated her 11th wedding anniversary with McManus last September, reflected on the fact that this decision evolved over time. "The decision for us to separate has evolved over a period of time. We are still finding our new way forward as a family and kindly ask for some privacy at this time ... especially for our little boy," she stated.

Despite their separation, McCutcheon expressed her gratitude and well-wishes for McManus. "I continue to send Jack all the love, luck, and happiness for the next chapter of his life. Rafferty and I (as always) are rooting for you!" she wrote, adding her thanks to her fans for their "respect and support at this difficult time."

McCutcheon first gained fame as Tiffany Mitchell in the BBC soap "EastEnders" before achieving international recognition with her role as Natalie in the 2003 holiday rom-com "Love Actually." The London-born star has also been open about her battle with chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as ME, which she was diagnosed with in 2011.

The actress concluded her heartfelt message by affirming her unwavering love for their son and their joint commitment to his well-being. "Our love for Rafferty is something that will never waver or change, and we obviously want to protect him and help him feel as safe and secure as possible," she explained.

As Martine McCutcheon and Jack McManus navigate this new chapter of their lives, their dedication to their son and mutual respect for one another remain strong focal points. The announcement serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of relationships and the enduring love of parents for their children.