Chris Harrison ends marriage of 18 years

Chris Harrison and his wife, Gwen, are divorcing after spending eighteen years of marital life. The couple first met as students at Oklahoma City University, where the host of ABC’s "The Bachelor" studied on a soccer scholarship, and fell in love. They have two kids, son Joshua, 9, and daughter Taylor, 7.

The news of the split was first told by People.com. It was reported that Chris Harrison and wife Gwen were making known their divorce "after much heartfelt consideration."

They have publicly announced their decision and explained that the divorce was a mutual understanding and it will be done respectfully. They also intend to remain on good terms with each other.

They issued a statement to usmagazine.com, saying, “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."

The report further says, "They happily remain committed and caring friends with great love and mutual admiration for each other."

Harrison has been a part of ABC’s "The Bachelor" since its inception in 2001. A couple of years ago,"Bachelor" fired contestant Rozlyn Papa for accusing Harrison of making a pass at a producer's wife during recording of the show in New Zealand. In “The Bachelor: The Women Tell All” special, Papa alleged that Harrison was a "cheater." At that time, he was hardly bothered by the comment of controversial contestant Rozlyn Papa.

Harrison reacted to Papa’s allegations by calling it a "cheap shot" and refused to comment on the issue any further, saying, “You won't hear me speak out about Rozlyn any more after this interview.”

He further explained, “I have nothing to hide. My wife was there.”

Harrison and Gwen’s house is about 35 miles from Hollywood. Harrison coaches soccer teams of both children and his wife thinks that he is an amazing father. She has said, "He is very loving and involved."

Harrison and his wife are still in a close relationship and have good understanding and respect for each other. The couple is trying to make it easier for the kids by giving them full attention. According to a hollywoodlife.com report, “They are still really close and remain the best of friends,” an inside source told In Touch magazine.

The report further says, “They’ve been taking turns with their kids so they can both see them as much as possible. It has been really amicable, with no other parties involved, and Chris has been a total professional in his job too.”

Harrison will be the host of the eighth season of "The Bachelorette" and it will broadcast on ABC on May 14.