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Bill Murray's wife files for divorce

Bill Murray’s wife of nearly 11 years wants a divorce alleging physical abuse and drug addiction.

Jennifer Butler, 42, who married Murray in 1997, filed her petition in Charleston county South Carolina on May 12. The couple separated more than a year ago and have been living separate lives ever since.

The petition says Butler moved to Sullivan's Islands, South Carolina with their four children in 2006 because of Murray's "adultery, addiction to marijuana and alcohol" and "abusive behavior."

 
It claims Murray physically assaulted Butler on multiple occasions, including one instance in November 1997 when he allegedly hit her in the face and told her she was "lucky he didn't kill her."

The complaint also sites "frequent abandonment," alleging that the star often left the country, without telling his wife.

Murray's "violent, abusive and erratic behavior toward [Butler] has destroyed the marital relationship".

The couple had signed a prenuptial agreement, waiving Butler's right to alimony, but she has urged the court to look into the document further to determine whether it is still enforceable. Under its terms, however, she will receive a one-time $7m (£3.5 million) payment from the actor.

According to the agreement, Murray is also required to buy Butler a $1m (£500,000) home in South Carolina.

Butler is seeking a restraining order against Murray as well as sole custody of the couple's children.

Murray is best known for his roles in the Ghostbusters films and more recently the Oscar-nominated Lost in Translation. He will star alongside Steve Carrell in Get Smart later this year.

He first worked with Butler, a film costume and wardrobe designer, on the Christmas comedy Scrooged in 1988.

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