Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux shocked us all when they announced their separation earlier this year. The split prompted speculation of what actually caused it, but in a New York Times interview published on Saturday (Sept. 22), Theroux spoke candidly about the breakup for the first time, revealing that the true reason behind it is far from scandalous. But he notes how tough it is to deal with so many nasty rumors about their breakup.

"The good news is that was probably the most -- I’m choosing my words really carefully -- it was kind of the most gentle separation, in that there was no animosity,” Theroux said to NYT. “In a weird way, just sort of navigating the inevitable perception of it is the exhausting part.”

Theroux added that it wasn't one specific thing that was the catalyst for their breakup, but rather "small events that take place." He also revealed that despite their breakup, he remains friends with Aniston. "It was heartbreaking only in the sense that the friendship would not be the same, as far as just the day to day," said the actor. "But the friendship is shifting and changing, you know, so that part is something that we’re both very proud of."

Before Theroux's interview, Aniston had spoken about their breakup in a recent candid InStyle interview with her friend Molly McNearney. But rather than revealing the reason behind their separation, she delved into how female celebrities are treated in contrast to men when they get divorced. "When a couple breaks up in Hollywood, it’s the woman who is scorned. The woman is left sad and alone. She’s the failure," explains Aniston. "F that. When was the last time you read about a divorced, childless man referred to as a spinster?"

Theroux and Aniston's divorce might still make fans sad, but it's great to know they still love and care about each other after everything they've been through.

Celebrity Breakups of 2018