Ariana Grande and Big Sean split: Break-up blamed on 'conflicting tour schedules'

Ariana Grande and Big Sean have ended their relationship after eight months, blaming "conflicting tour schedules" for the split.

Reps for both Grande, 22, and Big Sean, 27, confirmed the news in a joint statement to Us Weekly, insisting the previously loved-up couple will remain friends.

Their publicists said: "They both deeply care for each other and remain close friends. We kindly ask that the media respect their wish for privacy regarding this personal matter at this time."

A source has revealed to the publication that the Break Free songstress and hip hop star broke up two weeks ago. They said: "They made the decision to part ways because their conflicting touring schedules would keep them apart over the next year."

The split comes just days after reports claimed the I Don't F**k With You rapper was furious with singer Justin Bieber for getting close to the pop star on stage while performing on her Honeymoon Tour.

A tweet alleged to have been posted by Big Sean, read: "This kid is about to learn not to touch my girl like that. Beliebe that." However it was later claimed to be false.

Another report recently claimed Grande's father, Edward Butera, had scolded the G.O.O.D. Music artist for reportedly making a sexual innuendo about the Break Free singer on Instagram. However, Butera later denied posting the message.

The pair confirmed their romance in October 2014 after multiple eyewitnesses spotted them on several dates around Los Angeles.

Just a few months before, both had endured highly publicised splits with the rapper ending his engagement to Glee actress Naya Rivera and the former Sam & Cat actress splitting from The Janoskians star Jai Brooks.

In November 2014, Grande opened up on their relationship and told Now magazine in an interview: "He's a sweetheart. I'm not that open... I'm still a little shy about it. But I am very happy and very loved-up."