Pitt also released his own statement to People, saying: "I am very saddened by this, but what matters most now is the well being of our kids. I kindly ask the press to give them the space they deserve during this challenging time."

TMZ, who broke the news, reported that Jolie has requested physical custody of their six children - Maddox Jolie-Pitt, 15, Pax Jolie-Pitt, 12, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, 11, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, 10, and eight-year-old twins Knox Jolie-Pitt and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt.

Images: Rex Pictures

Angelina Jolie breaks silence on Brad Pitt child abuse investigations