The parents of 8-year-old twins and 5-year-old sextuplets announced their separation on Monday night's episode of their TLC reality show Jon Kate Plus 8. The show featured an addendum stating that divorce proceedings were initiated Monday.

Jon and Kate said they would keep their home in Wernersville, Pa., and would alternate the days they will stay there with the children.

Other details were not given.

"I'm not very fond of the idea, but I know it's necessary, because my goal is peace for the kids," Kate said during the emotional show.

"I don't hate Kate, but … I have to do what's best for me and my kids," Jon said.

Tabloids and viewers have been speculating on the couple's relationship since Jon was photographed leaving a Pennsylvania nightclub with a female friend April 19. Since then, Kate was spotted vacationing solo with the sextuplets in North Carolina last month, and Jon was seen apartment-hunting in New York.