Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux announce separation

In this February 22, 2015 photo, Justin Theroux (left) and Jennifer Aniston (right) arrive at the Oscars in Los Angeles. The couple announced on Thursday, February 15, 2018, that they have separated. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

LOS ANGELES — Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux are separating.

In a statement released through Aniston’s publicist on Thursday, the couple said that the decision to split “was mutual and lovingly made at the end of last year.”

The couple said they are making the announcement publicly “in an effort to reduce any further speculation.”

“Normally we would do this privately, but given that the gossip industry cannot resist an opportunity to speculate and invent, we wanted to convey the truth directly,” said the statement released by longtime Aniston publicist Stephen Huvane.

“Whatever else is printed about us that is not directly from us, is someone else’s fictional narrative.  Above all, we are determined to maintain the deep respect and love that we have for one another,” the statement also noted.

Aniston and Theroux said they are “two best friends who have decided to part ways as a couple, but look forward to continuing our cherished friendship.”

Aniston and Theroux were engaged in August of 2012 and married in August of 2015. They have no children.

Aniston, 49, was previously married to Brad Pitt from 2000 to 2005.  /kga