Jennifer Lopez has spoken for the first time since the end of her marriage to Marc Anthony, stating that 'marriage is tough'.

Speaking to Vanity Fair, the 'On The Floor' star said that the split 'was the hardest decision I've ever had to face.  I really wanted this family to work.  That was my biggest dream, and I worked hard at it.  We both did'.

'We had the first three years of our marriage just for us. I wasn't working, it was mainly about him. Then we got pregnant. Then it became about the kids. And then I started working again'.

She continued: 'Sometimes it doesn't work—and that's sad. But I remain an eternal optimist about love. I believe in love...It's still my biggest dream'.

According to E! Online however, the interview with Vanity Fair took place before the couple announced their separation, suggesting that their marriage was well and truly over by that point. 

The singer denied rumours that the split was bitter, adding: 'I will always respect Marc as a singer and performer.  We actually work great together, and he was always very supportive'.