21/11/2008

Madonna And Ritchie Granted Divorce

Pop star Madonna and her film director husband, Guy Ritchie have been granted a divorce at the High Court in London, today.

The couple's decree nisi was granted at 10am on Friday, less than a month after the couple declared they would be separating.

The case was listed before District Judge Reid alongside 16 others "for pronouncement of decree or order under the special procedure rule".

The hearing for the "quickie" divorce - in which both parties agree to all the terms of the divorce - lasted only a few minutes, and did not require either party to attend.

It has been reported the couple have reached agreed arrangements for their children. Their two boy's, Rocco, eight and adopted David Banda, three, are likely to split their time between Britain and the US, while Lourdes, 12 - Madonna's child from an earlier relationship - will remain with her.

According to The Times newspaper, Madonna will retain the majority of her estimated £300 million wealth.

It is thought Ritchie's personal fortune is around £30 million.

Madonna and Guy Ritchie married at Skibo Castle in Scotland in December 2000. They announced they would be separating in October.

Madonna is due to appear in concert in Philadelphia tonight as part of the US leg of her Sticky & Sweet tour.

(JM)

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