Robert De Niro talks about the "difficult" separation of his wife Grace Hightower

Robert De Niro publicly confirmed that his wife, Grace Hightower, had been overthrown by his wife for more than two decades, after Page Six reported exclusively that the couple lived separately.

De Niro said Tuesday in a statement: "Grace and I have two beautiful children together. We are entering a transition period in our relationship which is a difficult but constructive process. "

The "Raging Bull" icon added: "I honor Grace as a wonderful mother and ask all to respect privacy and respect as we develop our roles as partners in parenting. . "

Sources had previously reported to Page Six that De Niro attended solo events since the summer and that the couple was separating. Insiders close to the couple then confirmed that De Niro and Hightower lived apart.

They married in 1997 after about ten years of dating and have two children together. They met for the first time when Hightower was working at the Michelin starred restaurant Mr. Chow in London.