EASTENDERS and The Crown actor Forbes Masson and his wife Melanie have announced they’ve split up after 25 years together.
The former couple, who have two grown-up children, each posted a statement on social media and said they didn’t make the decision lightly.
Forbes Masson and Melanie Masson have split up Credit: Getty
They released statements on social media Credit: Instagram/ @forbesmasson
Forbes, 62, wrote: “It is with a deep sadness and a very heavy and sore heart that I have to announce that after over 25 years together Melanie and I are going our separate ways.
“I wish Melanie only love and happiness and hope she finds it. It has been a very difficult decision for both of us. Sorry to family members and close friends who are finding out this way. X.”
While former X Factor star Melanie, 57, said: “Some time ago, Forbes and I made the decision to go our separate ways. We have been waiting for the right time to share this sad news.
“Forbes and I created two beautiful humans who we will forever love, cherish, support and nurture. They are now young adults who understand and accept our decision and remain secure in our love for them.
Melanie was an X Factor live show finalist in 2012 Credit: Ken McKay
Forbes’ EastEnders character was beaten up by Gianni di Marco Credit: BBC
“This was a mutual decision and although our relationship has ended, our friendship will remain. We will always be family.”
Forbes famously played tutor Rod Morris in , employed to help struggling Nicky di Marco pass her maths GCSE.
The student took a liking to the teacher, who initially ignored her infatuation.
But he crossed the line when he reciprocated a kiss and sexually assaulted her.
He was subsequently arrested and released on bail, before Nicky’s older brother Gianni beat him up. Rod escaped prison when the di Marcos agreed to drop charges to avoid Gianni being sent down.
Prior to the soap, he co-wrote Scottish airline comedy The High Life with Alan Cumming.
More recently, he played photographer Duncan Muir in series six The Crown.
Meanwhile, Melanie appeared on X Factor in 2012 in the Over 28s category and was the second finalist to be eliminated.
She is a successful session singer, having worked with the likes of Stereophonics, Kasabian and Fatboy Slim, and has numerous West End stage credits to her name.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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