Chris Rock and wife split after 19 years of marriage

Chris Rock and wife Malaak Compton-Rock

New York: Funnyman Chris Rock has filed for divorce from wife Malaak Compton-Rock after 19 years of marriage.

Chris Rock and wife Malaak Compton-Rock. Pic/AFP

The 49-year-old 'I think I love My Wife' actor's lawyer Robert S Cohen confirmed the news in a statement, reported the Hiffington Post.

"Chris Rock has filed for divorce from his wife, Malaak, This is a personal matter and Chris requests privacy as he and Malaak work through this process and focus on their family," Cohen said.

Malaak also released a statement confirming the split. "After much contemplation and 19 years of marriage, Chris and I have decided to go our separate ways. Being fortunate enough to lead a life of service by working with those most vulnerable makes me well aware of life's blessings, even when faced with difficulties," she said.

The pair married in 1996 and have two daughters together -- Lola, 12, and Zahra, 10.