EastEnders stars Max Bowden and Shona McGarty have reportedly called time on their romance six months after they began dating.
It is understood the pair decided it wasn't meant to be after Max became a dad for the first time in September, when his ex gave birth.
Rumours had circulated that the actors, who play Ben Mitchell and Whitney Dean, were together but they went official on Instagram last month.
In June, Shona, 31, and Max, 27, were spotted looking very close as they giggled together on the red carpet at the Soap Awards, further fuelling romance rumours.
That same month, the pair were spotted holding hands while on a romantic trip to a kebab van.
However, it appears their relationship is now over.
A source told The Sun: “There has been a lot going on in Max’s life and things were just getting too complicated with Shona being involved.
“Max will always have a lot of love and respect for Shona but it’s just not the right time.
“Everyone is trying to make things as least awkward as possible on set – luckily they don’t have many scenes together.”
A friend of the actors said that the pair were never in an official relationship and remain close friends, but decided not to pursue a romantic relationship a few months ago.
Shona had split from her electrician fiancé Ryan Harris in January.
In late September, Max announced the birth of his son, Reginald Buckle, after his ex Roisin Buckle gave birth.
Sharing a black and white photo of the tot's feet, and another of Max looking adoringly at the newborn and holding his hand, the actor wrote on Instagram: "Reginald Buckle welcome to the world son. Born on the 19th September 2022.
"Greatest feeling in the world and a love like I’ve never felt. Will never get over the feeling of my son looking me in the eye for the first time.
"Well done to Roisin on being such a strong first time Mum and taking to motherhood like a champ.
"Heart is very full of love and gratitude, and can’t wait to love this little man for eternity! [love heart emoji]"
Max and Roisin had announced in April they were expecting a baby boy just weeks after confirming they had split. The pair vowed to raise the tot together at the time.
He had been dating the insurance executive since May 2021 but the pair went public in October.
Shona had split from her electrician fiancé Ryan Harris in January.
The Mirror has approached Max and Shona for comment.
