**Heidi Klum Announces Split from Seal**

**Supermodel and musician end seven-year marriage**

Heidi Klum and Seal have announced their separation after seven years of marriage, according to a joint statement released by the couple on Tuesday.

The statement said, "While we have enjoyed seven very loving, loyal and happy years of marriage, after much soul-searching we have decided to separate." They added, "We have had the deepest respect for one another throughout our relationship and continue to love each other very much, but we have come to the realization that our lives have taken different directions."

Klum, 38, and Seal, 49, were married in a lavish ceremony in Mexico in 2005. They have three children together: Henry, 6, Johan, 5, and Lou, 2. Klum also has a daughter, Leni, 7, from a previous relationship.

The couple's split comes as a surprise to many, as they have always appeared to be very happy together. However, sources close to the couple say that they have been having problems for some time.

Klum and Seal have asked for privacy during this difficult time. They have not yet filed for divorce.