Dannii, Kris split

Couple confirm break-up after four years together...

10:06 04 April 2012

Dannii Minogue and Kris Smith have confirmed that their relationship is over.

The former X Factor judge and her model boyfriend had been together for four years and have a son, Ethan.

The Australia's Got Talent judge posted a statement on Twitter confirming the speculation that the pair had split:

"It brings me great sadness to tell you that Kris and I have separated.

"We still care for each other and ask for privacy at this difficult time, in particular for our son Ethan who remains our number one priority."

The singer added that she "needs to retreat for a while" but thanked fans for their "ever loving continued support".

Smith, a former professional rugby player, also tweeted:

"Dannii and I have a deep mutual love and respect for each other and although things have not worked out we have a gorgeous son together that we both love and implore everyone to respect our privacy at this challenging time."

It had been reported that Smith moved out of the home the couple shared in Australia two weeks ago.

Sources claimed that it was MinogueÂ’s busy work schedule that had put the relationship under strain.