Jon Hamm, Jennifer Westfeldt Break Up After 18 Years, Dismissing Rumors

Say it ain't so! Mad Men star Jon Hamm and Friends With Kids actress Jennifer Westfeldt have decided to end their long-term relationship of nearly 20 years. The shocking news comes months after Hamm's rep shut down breakup rumors that had been floating around. The two released a joint statement recounting their love for each other and promising to remain positive factor in each other's lives.

"With great sadness, we have decided to separate, after 18 years of love and shared history," Hamm and Westfeldt said to People in a joint statement. "We will continue to be supportive of each other in every way possible moving forward." The former couple released an amicable statement through publicist Annett Wolf.

The 44-year-old actor, who also directs and produces, began dating Westfeldt in 1997. Despite never tying the knot, Hamm and Westfeldt grew individually and as a unit throughout the years, overcoming struggles together and surpassing the odds of most Hollywood relationships. Hamm even credits his long-time love for standing by him during his battle with alcohol abuse and road-to-recovery in rehab.

Westfeldt and Hamm have shared their love for acting on the big screen together in a few films, including Kissing Jessica Stein and Ira & Abby. There was also past talk of more joint projects taking place in the future. The two were last publicly photographed together on July 22 at the New York premiere of Hamm's most recent project, the Netflix series, Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp.

Just last year, Hamm opened up to People about his powerful connection with Westfeldt and why helt so lucky to have her in his life. "Our lives are entwined," the actor said. "It's a long time [together]. I'm definitely the guy that repeats his stories! Mostly it's just paying attention and keeping engaged and not succumbing to inertia or going through the motions."