NE-YO says Jenna Dewan and Channing Tatum seemed “super happy” before announcing their divorce

He said: “First and foremost, I don’t know how new or old it is. On the show, if there was any trouble in paradise, you never knew it. She was all smiles all the time, you know? It was shocking to everybody here.”

Jenna - who has four-year-old daughter Everly with her estranged spouse - kept details of her impending split a secret until the pair were ready to make their statements, and this ‘Miss Independent’ hitmaker was impressed with the way the couple handled the news.

Speaking to PeopleNow, he added: “I liked the way they handled it, though. You know? They got out in front of it. They both know that this is the life you live in front of people, so the news was eventually gonna get out. So they said, you know what as opposed to some silly blog picking it up, we’re gonna go ahead and let people know what’s going on. Let everybody know there’s no animosity, no drama, or whatever.

“So I dig the way that they handled it, but it is sad to hear because again, as far as I knew - as far as anybody knew - they were super happy.”

Jenna and Channing, both 37, announced their decision to split earlier this month, when they told fans they have “lovingly decided to separate” after nine years of marriage.

Their statement read: "We have lovingly chosen to separate as a couple.

"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.

"We are still a family and will always be loving dedicated parents to Everly.

"We won't be commenting beyond this, and we thank you all in advance for respecting our family's privacy. Sending lots of love to everyone, Chan&Jenna (sic)"