Richie Sambora in ‘better place’ with Locklear

Richie Sambora says he is "in a good place" with Heather Locklear.

The Bon Jovi guitarist gets on better with his ex-wife now than they ever did during their marriage. Melrose Place actress Heather ended their 13-year marriage over five years ago but Richie says this was the best thing that could have happened.

"[We are currently] in a very good place," Richie told Access Hollywood.

"Heather and I really respect each other and we've become better friends, I think, now that we're not married."

Richie and Heather have a daughter together called Ava. He revealed that although the 15-year-old is their number one priority, this isn't the only reason that the former couple stay in touch.

"We're very good. It's actually even beyond for [our daughter's] sake," Richie continued. "We go out all the time as a family."

As a member of the famed rock band Bon Jovi, Richie explained it is vital to stay on the straight and narrow as his daughter ages. The star has to practise what he preaches when it comes to teaching Ava right from wrong.

"Throughout my parenting I have given her a moral barometer, because when they become teenagers, they're going to be away from you more than they're going to be with you," Richie explained. "They're going to make their own decisions."