Justin Trudeau and wife Sophie Grégoire announce separation after 18 years

The 52-year-old Canadian Prime Minister announced the sad news on Instagram.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his wife of 18 years, Sophie Grégoire, are separating.

The 52-year-old politician made the announcement on Thursday with an Instagram message written in both English and French.

“Sophie and I would like to share the fact that after many meaningful and difficult conversations, we have made the decision to separate,” he wrote.

“As always, we remain a close family with deep love and respect for each other and for everything we have built and will continue to build.”

In a statement to PEOPLE, the Prime Minister’s office said a legal separation agreement had been signed, and echoed Justin’s sentiment that the family is close.

Justin and Sophie have three children, 15-year-old Xavier, 14-year-old Ella Grace and nine-year-old Hadrian.

“Both parents will be a constant presence in their children’s lives and Canadians can expect to often see the family together,” the statement read.

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Trudeau shared the sad message early Thursday. Photo: Instagram

Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire separate

The statement added that the family would be “together on vacation, beginning next week”.

Justin Trudeau was elected Prime Minister in 2015, and narrowly won a second re-election in 2021. He thanked his wife Sophie in his victory speech.

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"Sophie: 12 years ago when we decided to be involved together in politics, it's because we wanted to defend our values, because we wanted to contribute to build a stronger Canada. And since the beginning, we did that together. Thank you,” he said.

Social media followers flocked to the comments with words of support.

“Very sorry,” wrote one person. “Look after yourself… steady on.”

“I am so very sorry to read this,” said another. “You have both been such a positive example of strength and dignity. I will be keeping you and the children in my thoughts and will send healing energy your way. 

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Justin and Sophie have three children, Xavier, Ella-Grace and Hadrian. Photo: Instagram

Sophie posted the same message on her Instagram.

“Going through any relationship change is difficult, but going through it publicly is a whole new level of difficult and vulnerable,” said one person.

Originally published as Justin Trudeau and wife Sophie Grégoire announce separation after 18 years