Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston separated

Where there’s smoke…there’s fire. Word of an impending break-up between Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston has been the media buzz for months, but now the sad truth is official. Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt released a joint statement last week announcing their separation. "For those who follow these sorts of things, we would like to explain that our separation is not the result of any of the speculation reported by the tabloid media. This decision is the result of much thoughtful consideration. We happily remain committed and caring friends with great love and admiration for one another."

Of course since the couple announced the split the media has been in a frenzy over what caused the break-up. There are two main theories surrounding the end of the relationship. One theory is that Pitt wanted to start a family but Aniston is too focused on her career. The other is that Pitt and his Mr. and Mrs. Smith co-star Angelina Jolie are having an affair. Pitt and Jolie spoke very highly of one another during filming of their movie, but both have denied any and all reports of an affair. Reportedly, Pitt and Jolie developed a close bond that may or may have not taken a romantic turn. Aniston was supposedly furious over their connection.

Reports are that Aniston is the one who broke it off, but that Pitt was "one step behind her." Sources say that the two have grown in different directions and want different things out of life, but are committed to remaining friends and moving on with their lives. Unless Pitt and Jolie start dating in the near future, chances are we will never really know what caused the break-up. People will continue to speculate all they want and will ultimately believe what they want to believe.