Why Channing Tatum Took a Year Off Ahead of Jenna Dewan Split (Exclusive)

Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan fought hard for their marriage to work, a source tells ET.

According to the source, Tatum has not been in production on any films for more than a year because he wanted to spend time with Dewan and their 4-year-old daughter, Everly. However, on Monday, the two announced they were splitting after eight years of marriage with a joint statement posted to their social media accounts. 

On Thursday, Tatum's rep shot down a tabloid report that the actor's alleged drinking was a factor in the split.

“The media is fabricating stories and none of these accusations are remotely true," Tatum's rep said in a statement to ET. "Channing and Jenna released an honest and loving statement which is the only truth."

Meanwhile, Dewan's rep has also slammed rumors of Tatum's alleged drinking contributing to their breakup.

"Happy to clarify that absolutely none of these rumors are true," Dewan's rep said in a statement to ET. "The reason our statement was so positive [was] because that’s the reality of the situation."

Sources previously told ET that Tatum and Dewan's split has actually been a long time coming. 

"They have been fighting the last couple of years -- quite a bit," one source noted. "There is a sense of relief on both of their parts. They have tried working on things and had therapy but nothing changed."

Still, a source told ET on Wednesday that the breakup has been a struggle for both. 

"[It has] been very difficult," the source said, adding that they "were very much in love" and just couldn't find a way to work through their differences. "It has been very challenging for a while and many of their fans are devastated. But this decision is truly is for the best."

"Hiding the fact [that] their marriage has been over for some time was devastating to Jenna and also hard for Channing," the source continued. "At this point they both feel the future will be better. And while their marriage couldn't last, their daughter is their first priority."

In their joint statement on Monday, the former couple made it clear they still have plenty of love for one another. Hours before the split announcement, Dewan was snapped still wearing her wedding ring, and on Wednesday, Tatum was spotted with daughter Everly at Target, also still wearing his wedding ring.

"We have lovingly chosen to separate as a couple," the joint statement read. "We fell deeply in love so many years ago and have had a magical journey together. Absolutely nothing has changed about how much we love one another, but love is a beautiful adventure that is taking us on different paths for now."

"There are no secrets nor salacious events at the root of our decision — just two best-friends realizing it’s time to take some space and help each other live the most joyous, fulfilled lives as possible," the statement continued. "We are still a family and will always be loving, dedicated parents to Everly."

For more on the split, watch the video below:

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