The 31-year-old popstar and her fiance - who got engaged in December 2011 - reportedly mutually decided to end their relationship with sources close to the pair insisting it was a "friendly break-up" and they simply "grew apart", according to gossip website TMZ.

While Britney`s legal and personal affairs have been in the hands of her father Jamie Spears since her breakdown in 2008, Jason took on the role of co-conservator but reportedly asked for news of their break-up to be kept private until his role as conservator ends.

This could happen imminently as Jamie attended court on Friday (11.01.13) to discuss Britney`s legal situation.

The break-up comes after a hectic week for Britney, who announced she has quit her role on the `X Factor` in order to focus on her music career.

She said: "I`ve made the very difficult decision not to return for another season. I had an incredible time doing the show and I love the other judges and I am so proud of my teens but it`s time for me to get back in the studio. Watching them all do their thing up on that stage every week made me miss performing so much! I can`t wait to get back out there and do what I love most."
sections: Celebrities