Al and Tipper Gore Announce Split

Living in the public can be hard, and many are shocked to hear the news that Al Gore and wife Tipper have announced that they are separating.

The couple shared in an e-mail to family and friends, "This is very much a mutual and mutually supportive decision that we have made together following a process of long and careful consideration. We ask for respect for our privacy and that of our family, and we do not intend to comment further."

Gore’s spokeswoman Kalee Kreider confirmed the e-mail, which comes after the couple appeared happy and close during Gore’s vice presidential years, 1993 to 2001, leaving many stunned at the news.

The Gore's have been married for 40 years.