LOS ANGELES - Actor-comedian Eddie Murphy's wife filed for divorce Friday, citing irreconcilable differences, his publicist confirmed.

Murphy and his wife, Nicole, married in 1993 and have been separated since July. They have four daughters and one son, ages 3 to 15, according to divorce papers filed in Los Angeles Superior Court.

"The welfare of our children is our main concern, and their best interest is our first priority," the 44-year-old actor said in a statement issued through his publicist, Paul Bloch.

The former "Saturday Night Live" star's film credits include the "Beverly Hills Cop," "The Nutty Professor" and "Dr. Doolittle" movies.