Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe Separate

It takes a lot to surprise the staff of The Hollywood Gossip. For example, Nicole Richie NOT fainting after working up any sort of sweat would be shocking.

However, news that Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe have separated after seven years of marriage definitely caused an audible gasp in the office.

"We are saddened to announce that Reese and Ryan have decided to formally separate," a rep for the couple said in a statement released Monday. "They remain committed to their family and we ask that you please respect their privacy and the safety of their children at this time."

TMZ.com first reported the couple's split and People magaine confirmed it.

Witherspoon, 30, and Phillippe, 32, have two children, daughter Ava, 7, and son Deacon, 3.

Witherspoon, who won an Oscar for her role in last year's hit Walk the Line, is next expected to appear in the drama Rendition. Phillippe is currently starring in the WWII drama, Flags of Our Fathers.

We hope Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore aren't next to call it quits.