James McAvoy and Anne-Marie Duff announce they are to divorce

The couple's statement read: 'It is with tremendous sadness that we have come to the decision to divorce'

The couple began their relationship when they starred alongside each other in the TV series Shameless (GETTY)

Hollywood star James McAvoy and his actress wife Anne-Marie Duff have announced that they are to divorce after 10 years of marriage.

The couple released a statement which said they would continue to have "friendship, love and respect for one another" despite the separation.

It read: "It is with tremendous sadness that we have come to the decision to divorce.

"We enter this next phase with continued friendship, love and respect for one another and the shared focus of caring for our son.

"We ask that you respect our and, most importantly, our child's privacy during this time."

The couple, whose relationship started when they starred alongside each other in the comedy-drama Shameless, had a son in 2010.

PA