Perry 'wanted Brand to file for divorce to avoid upsetting parents'

Katy Perry reportedly wanted her husband Russell Brand to file divorce papers because she did not want to upset her religious parents.

It was revealed yesterday that the comic actor had filed separation documents in Los Angeles citing "irreconcilable differences" and the pop star wanted Russell to take the lead because she was raised by her mother and father, Mary and Keith Hudson – who are both Evangelical Christian pastors - to believe divorce is wrong.

According to TMZ.com, the couple, who married in India in October 2010, knew their relationship was in trouble two months ago but were determined to work on it and try and stay together.

However, their efforts failed and both Perry and Brand accepting that their once strong love “just wasn’t there” any longer.

The pair made the decision to file divorce papers before spending Christmas apart, with the 27-year-old singer heading to Hawaii with friends, while the 36-year-old comedian spending the festive holiday in Cornwall, in the South West of England.

Following the news yesterday, the ‘Arthur’ actor said in a statement: “Sadly, Katy and I are ending our marriage. I'll always adore her and I know we'll remain friends."