In Hollywood years, seven years seems like a lifetime. This is why, when supermodel and television host Heidi Klum and singer Seal announced that they had decided to divorce after seven years of marriage, many people in Ohio and across the country were highly surprised. This was a couple, after all, that had a lavish vow-renewal ceremony every year, that talked about one another with the utmost love and respect, and that seemed very happy together.

In a statement to People magazine, the couple stated that their careers and differing schedules ultimately caused their divorce. "While we have enjoyed seven very loving, loyal and happy years of marriage, after much soul searching we have decided to separate," the statement read. "We have had the deepest respect for one another throughout our relationship and continue to love each other very much, but we have grown apart."

Klum and Seal were married in 2005, and have since had three children together. In addition, they raised Klum's daughter from a previous relationship. In their statement, they expressed concern for their children as they worked to end their marriage. "This is an amicable process and protecting the well-being of our children remains our top priority," they said, "especially during this time of transition."

Certainly, no one besides Klum and Seal knows what led to the end of their marriage. Anonymous sources say that Seal grew resentful of his wife's increasingly busy schedule as she focused on her television career. Others say that the two had a contentious, argumentative relationship. Whatever the reason, we hope they can remain on friendly terms as they work to end their marriage.

Source: Chicago Sun-Times, "Heidi Klum, Seal ready to say 'Auf Wiedersehen'," Bill Zwecker, Jan. 22, 2012