Swank and Lowe divorce after trial split

Hilary Swank and Chad Lowe have decided to divorce after originally separating in January.

The pair – who married in 1997 – had hoped to recover their relationship. "Hilary and Chad have decided to separate," said a spokesman for the actress at the time. "But they are hopeful they'll be able to get through this tough time."

There had since been rumours that things were working out.

The couple's lawyer Jeffrey Bernstein has now confirmed a full separation will go ahead, however. "Hilary Swank and Chad Lowe have jointly decided to divorce," he told People. "They continue to be friends and have the utmost respect for one another."