Avetts make tabloids

If there was still any question about the Avett Brothers level of fame outside of Charlotte following the Concord trio's Grammy nomination and appearance and a national Gap commercial, the hometown heroes have reached another level - tabloid fodder.

Earlier today Seth Avett announced on the band's website that he and his wife of five years are divorcing. He revealed that the couple has been separated for some time.

Radaronline.com followed his announcement with an exclusive report that the younger Avett brother is dating "Dexter" actress Jennifer Carpenter. The story quotes unnamed sources about the "secret affair" and includes Carpenter's old tweets about her "favorite band" leading up to the release of the Avetts' album "The Carpenter" last September.

Locally the rumor has been circulating for some time. I googled it months ago and found nothing. The "news" signals a new kind of fame. In his post on the band's site Avett asks for privacy, prayers, and understanding during this "difficult and painful time." Read his message here.