Chris Rock will end 2014 on a low note, filing for divorce from his wife, Malaak Compton-Rock, of nearly 20 years.
"After much contemplation and 19 years of marriage, Chris and I have decided to go our separate ways," the 45-year-old Compton-Rock said in a statement on Dec. 28, according to People. "Being fortunate enough to lead a life of service by working with hose most vulnerable makes me well aware of life's blessings, even when faced with difficulties."
The mother of Rock's two children, Lola, 12, and Zahra, 10, is a philanthropist and founder of the nonprofit styleWorks. The two met in 1994 and married two years later. They have lived together with their family in Alpine, New Jersey.
"While recognizing that this is a significant change, my children remain at the center of my life and their well-being is my top priority. It is in this spirit that I sincerely ask that their privacy and the privacy of our family be respected during this transition in our lives.
Rock confirmed the split through his attorney Robert S. Cohen, according to People.
"Chris Rock has filed for divorce from his wife, Malaak," Cohen said in a statement. "This is a personal matter and Chris requests privacy as he and Malaak work through this process and focus on their family."
Divorce rumors between Rock and his wife sprung up in 2010 following claims that the "Saturday Night Live" alum had fathered another child out of wedlock. The controversy spurred from a photograph of Rock carrying a little girl who ended up being the child of a family friend.
The 49-year-old comedian recently released his film "Top Five," which he wrote, directed and starred in. He stars as a comedian who tries to make it as a serious actor while his reality-star fiancé wants to broadcast their wedding on her TV show.
