Socialite Paris Hilton and Good Charlotte rocker Benji Madden have ended their 9-month relationship, with Hilton’s publicist stating the classic “they remain good friends.”

A source close to the 27-year-old socialite and reality star told People magazine she and 29-year-old Benji Madden split a few days ago, bringing their 9-month relationship to an end.

The unnamed source told the magazine that the two were too different and wanted “different things in life” so they found it best to part ways. Suggesting that it was Paris Hilton who initiated the break-up, the source added Benji was “loyal and sweet but it was time to take a break.”

The relationship appeared to be going along well, especially since it was only last month that Madden told People he had no second thoughts about sharing his exact feelings for Hilton. “I’m very open about how in love I am – Paris and I are very happy,” he said.

The paparazzi were present a few days ago when Paris Hilton had a run-in with former boyfriend Stavros Niarchos at the Mokai nightclub in Miami but the source denied any romantic reconciliation between the two. Just a couple of days later, each of the supposed lovers was photographed partying separately in Los Angeles, sparking speculation of a breakup.

Benji Madden plays guitar in rock band Good Charlotte while his twin brother Joel Madden is lead singer. Joel is in a relationship with socialite Nicole Richie and they have a little girl. Richie and Paris Hilton are best friends so it was quite cute when the four of them made such a close-knit little group.

It was only a while ago that Paris Hilton said she would love to have children – any day now but it appears she will not be starting a family with Benji Madden.