Bill Murray's wife files for divorce

Jennifer Butler Murray cites adultery, abuse, drug addiction and abandonment in court papers

Friday, 30 May 2008

Bill Murray and wife Jennifer Butler Murray are separating after over 11 years of marriage.

Costume designer Jennifer, 42, filed divorce papers earlier this month at a court in Charleston County, South Carolina, on the grounds of drug addiction, physical abuse, adultery and abandonment.

She has also requested a restraining order against Bill, 57, to bar him from her Sullivan's Island home, where she has lived with their 4 children since 2006.

Jennifer alleges she and the children were forced to flee their £2m home in Charleston because of his violent behaviour.

She claims the actor is addicted to marijuana and alcohol, and would travel overseas to be unfaithful.

Bill has declined to comment on the allegations.

‘We cannot comment on the facts of the case,’ Bill’s lawyer John McDougall tells People. ‘I can say that Bill Murray is deeply saddened by the break-up of his marriage to Jennifer.

'They remain loving parents, committed to the best interest of their children. And Mr Murray asks the public respect his family's privacy at this difficult time.’

Jennifer is requesting sole custody of their children Caleb, 15, Jackson, 12, Cooper, 11, and Lincoln, 7.

She also wants the court to determine whether a £3.5m pre-nup the pair signed is valid.

Bill was previous married to Margaret Kelly. They have 2 sons – Homer, 26, and Luke, 23.