Eddie Murphy's wife files for divorce

Eddie Murphy's wife Nicole has filed for divorce from the comedian, citing "irreconcilable differences".

The British beauty filed the papers in downtown Los Angeles on Friday, and has recruited high-powered celebrity divorce lawyer Neil Hersch.

The two have been married for 12 years, after exchanging nuptials on March 18, 1993.

Nicole, 37, and Eddie, 44, have five children - Bella Zahra, Bria, Shayne Audra, Zola Ivy and Miles Mitchell. Daddy Day Care star Eddie also has another son, Christian, from a previous relationship.

In a statement released to US TV show Extra!, the funnyman says: "The welfare of our children is our main concern and their best interests are our first priority."