Earlier this week, tragedy struck the fashion world when iconic designer and entrepreneur Kate Spade was found dead in her apartment in what was deemed an apparent suicide. She was 55 years old. Kate is survived by her husband, Andy Spade, and their 13-year-old daughter, Frances. However, there was news yesterday that Andy Spade was seeking a divorce from Kate, and that he was living in a separate residence when Kate Spade's body was found. Since Kate Spade's death, Andy hasn't spoken publicly about this tragedy. That changes today, as he released an official statement. In it, he set the record straight, saying:
For the past 10 months we had been living separately, but within a few blocks of each other. Bea was living with both of us and we saw each other or spoke every day. We ate many meals together as a family and continued to vacation together as a family. Our daughter was our priority. We were not legally separated, and never even discussed divorce. We were best friends trying to work through our problems in the best way we knew how. We were together for 35 years. We loved each other very much and simply needed a break. This is the truth. Anything else that is out there right now is false. She was actively seeking help for depression and anxiety over the last 5 years, seeing a doctor on a regular basis and taking medication for both depression and anxiety. There was no substance or alcohol abuse. There were no business problems. We loved creating our businesses together. We were co-parenting our beautiful daughter. I have yet to see any note left behind and am appalled that a private message to my daughter has been so heartlessly shared with the media.
The note that Andy Spade is referring to his statement, published by The New York Times, is in reference to a reported suicide address left by Kate Spade's side when her body was found. The note allegedly told Frances Spade that her mother loved her very much, and that she should carry no guilt for what happened. Kate Spade also reportedly claimed Andy would know why she decided to take her own life, as Kate allegedly wrote, "ask daddy"
Andy Spade's statement also discussed Kate Spade's depression and the shock and grief he feels, as well as the sorrow he feels for Frances Spade.
Kate was the most beautiful woman in the world. She was the kindest person I've ever known and my best friend for 35 years. My daughter and I are devastated by her loss, and can't even begin to fathom life without her. We are deeply heartbroken and miss her already. Kate suffered from depression and anxiety for many years. She was actively seeking help and working closely with her doctors to treat her disease, one that takes far too many lives. We were in touch with her the night before and she sounded happy. There was no indication and no warning that she would do this. It was a complete shock. And it clearly wasn't her. There were personal demons she was battling... My main concern is Bea and protecting her privacy as she deals with the unimaginable grief of losing her mother. Kate loved Bea so very much.
Once again, we express our condolences to Frances Spade, Andy Spade and all her friends and loved ones during this difficult time. If you or someone you know has thoughts about suicide, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK, which is available 24/7 across the United States.
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