Update!

Madonna, Guy Granted Quickie Divorce

London High Court grants preliminary divorce decree to former couple; split can be made final in six weeks and one day

By Gina Serpe Nov 21, 2008 4:40 PMTags
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On the off chance she wasn't already, Madonna was just given carte blanche—by the British courts, if not her now ex-hubby—to pursue Alex Rodriguez as blatantly as she wants.

Likewise, Guy Ritchie is free to rock 'n' roll with whomever he pleases.

London's High Court this morning granted the onetime supercouple a preliminary decree of divorce. According to a sworn statement released by the court, it was Madonna who filed for the divorce, citing "unreasonable behavior" on Ritchie's part.

Madonna's rep has so far opted out of commenting on the proceedings.

"I am not releasing a statement nor confirming or denying reports," Liz Rosenberg told E! News.

The papers did not reveal the nature of his behavior, but did claim it was ongoing. Madonna's statement also said the couple had been residing at different addresses for six months prior to their divorce filing one month ago.

After six weeks and one day, the divorce can be made final.

The judge who granted the divorce, Senior District Judge Philip Waller, did not exercise any powers under Britain's Children Act in the case, a sure sign that the former star couple has, as reports suggested, reached an agreement over custody of their three children.

Neither Madonna nor Ritchie appeared at this morning's ultrabrief—theirs was one of 17 decrees granted in under six minutes—session.

(Originally published on Nov. 21, 2008 at 6:29 a.m. PT)