Singer Despina Vandi and footballer Demis Nikolaidis, one of the hottest celebrity couples in Greece, have announced their separation.
Ms Vandi’s manager, George Arsenakos, released a message to the media, signed by both Ms Vandi and Mr Nikolaidis.
“After 18 years, we have decided to continue the breakdown of our marriage. Our absolute priority is the care and protection of our children and we ask for respect for our decision and our priority.”
Though news stunned fans of the couple, friends were aware that the two had been living separate lives for a while. On social media, the rift had been evident as Ms Vandi, who is active on social media, had not been posting any photos featuring her husband.
Her most recent song, Petra (Rock), also foreshadowed problems as it is a song about separation with Ms Vandi interpreted with a great deal of emotion.
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The couple had met in 1999 and married on 1 June 2003.
They have two children, Melina, 17 and George, 14.
