EastEnders and The Crown actor Forbes Masson announces he has split from his X Factor star wife after 25 years of marriage
EastEnders and The Crown star Forbes Masson has announced his split from his wife of 25 years, Melanie.
Describing the decision as a painful decision taken after long thought, the 62-year-old actress and 57-year-old Melanie, who starred in The X Factor series in 2012, announced their separation with the statements they made on Instagram.
The couple, who have two adult children, said the separation was mutual and they would remain committed to their family.
Forbes wrote: ‘It is with deep sadness and a heavy and painful heart that I must announce that after 25 years together, Melanie and I will be going our separate ways.
‘I wish Melanie only love and happiness and hope she finds it. This was a very difficult decision for both of us. I apologize to family members and close friends who found out this way. X.’
Former X Factor star Melanie said: ‘Some time ago Forbes and I decided to part ways. We were waiting for the right time to share this sad news.
EastEnders and The Crown star Forbes Masson has announced his split from wife of 25 years Melanie (pictured together)
‘Forbes and I have created two beautiful people that we will love, cherish, support and cherish forever. They are now young adults who understand and accept our decision and are confident in our love for them.
‘This was a mutual decision and although our relationship has ended, our friendship will continue. We will always be family.’
The couple’s announcement was made via the former couple’s social media accounts, with both emphasizing that the decision was not taken lightly.
They also emphasized their continued commitment to their children and their intention to remain friends despite the end of their marriage.
Forbes is best known to television audiences for his role as teacher Rod Morris in EastEnders.
The tutor was hired to help Nicky di Marco improve his maths GCSE grades before he became embroiled in one of the BBC soap’s most controversial storylines.
Nicky developed feelings for Rod, who initially rejected her advances, but later reciprocated a kiss and sexually assaulted her.
Rod was later arrested and released on bail before Nicky’s brother Gianni di Marco attacked him.
The character was spared prison time after the Di Marco family agreed to drop the charges.
Away from Albert Square, Forbes found success as co-creator and co-writer of Scottish comedy series The High Life, alongside Alan Cumming.
Melanie rose to prominence by competing on the 2012 series of The X Factor. He became the second finalist to leave the competition in the over 28 age category.
The couple, who have two adult children, said the separation was mutual and they would remain committed to their family.
Former X Factor star Melanie said: ‘Some time ago Forbes and I decided to part ways’
Forbes thanked friends for their support after making the announcement
The cult sitcom, set among the cabin crew of a fictional airline, remains one of the actor’s best-known television projects.
More recently, Forbes appeared in the sixth series of The Crown, playing photographer Duncan Muir.
The acclaimed Netflix drama chronicled the final years of the British royal family and sparked extensive controversy in its final season over its depiction of real-life events.
Melanie rose to prominence by competing on the 2012 series of The X Factor.
He became the second finalist to leave the competition in the over 28 age category.
During her time on the ITV talent show, Melanie impressed the judges and viewers with her powerful vocals and emotional performances.
Melanie has established herself as an in-demand singer since appearing on The X Factor.
He has worked with artists such as Stereophonics, Kasabian and Fatboy Slim, and has also had an extensive career in musical theatre, with numerous West End credits.
