Los Angeles, Jul 16 (IANS/EFE): Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony, who wed seven years ago last month, have separated, Us Magazine.com said Friday.

"We have decided to end our marriage," the couple said in a statement released to the magazine by their representative. "This was a very difficult decision. We have come to amicable conclusion on all matters."

Lopez and Anthony are the parents of three-year-old fraternal twins Max and Emme.

"It is a painful time for all involved, and we appreciate the respect of our privacy at this time," they said in the statement.

Following a season as a judge on "American Idol", the 41-year-old Lopez is preparing to return to the big screen with two films: "Parker", an action flick with Jason Statham; and "What to Expect When You're Expecting", an ensemble comedy about the prospect of parenthood.

Lopez's current single, "Ven a bailar", is No. 4 on Billboard's Latin Songs chart.

Anthony, 42, now on a concert tour in South America, has a continuing role on the TNT television medical drama "HawthoRNe."