Ryan Phillippe Speaks Out About Reese Witherspoon Split

It's "the most difficult time of [his] life," but Ryan Phillippe is finally speaking up about one of the more publicized Hollywood divorces in years.

"I must stay focused on my kids," Phillippe tells TV's Extra in an interview airing this week.

On November 8, Reese Witherspoon filed for divorce from Phillippe, citing irreconcilable differences. The couple was married for seven years and have two children: Ava, 7, and Deacon, 3.

The Flags of Our Fathers star said he has "not found balance" yet in his personal and professional life. Perhaps he ought to follow the lead of Brody Jenner and simply not bother with a professional life.

Going through a break-up in the public eye makes things harder, he says:

"It's unfortunate when you have kids ... but I signed up for this and have to deal with it. I don't read the magazines or watch the shows ... It's hard when people follow me to my kid's school."

We're sure going on national TV can only help reduce such exposure. It sure worked for Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey.

Phillippe would not comment on reports that a relationship with Abbie Cornish â€" the Australian actress who costars with him in an upcoming film â€" played a role in the demise of his marriage.

Therefore, we'll go ahead and assume that it did.