Zach Gilford and Kiele Sanchez, who portrayed a married couple on the popular series ‘Criminal Minds,’ are now facing a significant life transition as they have officially become estranged, highlighted by Zach’s recent decision to file for divorce. This shocking news marks the end of a 12-year marriage that began with on-screen romance and transitioned into real-life commitment.

Zach promptly took legal action by visiting the court on Friday, submitting divorce papers against his actress wife after more than a decade of their union. The legal documents acquired by TMZ indicate that Zach is citing irreconcilable differences as the primary reason for their separation, though he has not specified a date of separation, choosing instead to leave it as “TBD.”

Famed for his role as quarterback Matt Saracen in the NBC hit series “Friday Night Lights,” Zach’s choice to pursue divorce reflects a complex personal situation. In the filed documents, he has indicated that he is seeking to share legal and physical custody of their two young children, aged 7 and 4. Their children are named Zeppelin and Revel, and it is evident that Zach is committed to ensuring their well-being during this challenging time.

In the divorce filing, Zach also indicated that he is open to providing Kiele with spousal support, although details regarding a potential prenuptial agreement remain unclear. This aspect adds another layer of complexity to the dissolution of their marriage, as financial arrangements can significantly impact their future post-divorce.

During his tenure on ‘Criminal Minds,’ Zach appeared in 20 episodes, showcasing his talent as the character Elias Voit, a notorious series killer. Kiele, on the other hand, had the opportunity to portray his character’s wife in a recurring role, further intertwining their professional and personal lives. This shared experience undoubtedly adds emotional weight to their current situation.