Heath Ledger and Michelle Williams have reportedly split up after more than three years together.

The couple met on the set of Brokeback Mountain in 2004 and their daughter, Mathilda, turns 2 years old next month.

The intensely private couple were plagued by marriage rumours earlier in the year - including stories that they had secretly wed - but now a source close to the pair has told Us Weekly magazine that they “quietly and amicably split a few weeks ago.”

“The relationship had been rocky recently. They tried very hard to make it work but finally decided to separate. They just grew apart.”

The source added that Mathilda’s welfare will come first in their future planning arrangements: “They have a beautiful daughter and they are both committed to being great parents.”