The Bachelor host Chris Harrison and his wife of 18 years, Gwen, have announced their separation “after much heartfelt consideration,” the couple tells PEOPLE exclusively.
“Though we have made this incredibly difficult decision to separate, our love and mutual respect remain, and we look forward to sharing in the lives of our wonderful children,” they say in a joint statement Thursday.
The couple has two children Joshua, 9, and Taylor, 7.
Harrison hosts the new season of The Bachelorette, which premieres May 14 on ABC.
