Sam Thompson and Zara McDermott split after five year romance

Sam Thompson and Zara McDermott have called time on their relationship after being an item for five years, it has been reported. During their time together, they set up home right next door to Sam's sister Louise and her partner Ryan Libbey.

The couple is also known for sharing their life with two furry felines, Albus and Cedric. This development follows the duo spending the festive period apart.

While 32 year old I'm A Celebrity champ Sam celebrated the start of 2023 at Kensington Roof Gardens in London amidst former Made in Chelsea stars Reza Amiri-Garroussi and Josh Patterson, Zara chose to stay in with their pets. For the latest TV & Showbiz news, sign up to our newsletter

Just a week before, Christmas day found Sam distributing gifts and volunteering with a charity, as Zara enjoyed the holiday with her relatives in Upminster, Essex. Their time apart was further extended when Sam was filming the I'm A Celebrity spin-off show Unpacked in Australia, an opportunity Zara missed due to her commitment to a BBC documentary she was shooting.

An insider shared with MailOnline: "Sam and Zara have ended their relationship. It's been an incredibly difficult decision for them to part ways, they still care and have a lot of love for each other."

According to the source, despite trying hard to make things work, the geographical distance had put a strain on their relationship, and both of them are now planning to focus on their own careers. Responses from the representatives of the pair for further remarks have been requested by Reach Plc.

Reflecting an atmosphere of speculation, Sam Thompson is yet to address the rumours directly; however, he took a moment in his New Year's Day Instagram Stories to express his optimism for the year 2025, saying: "New year! 2025 baby come on let's have it! I can't wait. The New year is going to be amazing and you're going to have the best year ever. And you know I'm always right."

The pair still appear to be on good terms, with Zara commenting on Sam's Instagram prank on Pete from just two days ago. She responded with a series of crying laughing emojis: "'Are you at a secure location' gets me every time."

The couple were last seen together in December celebrating Zara's birthday as Sam shared a post calling her his "soulmate" and "best friend". However, just a week later, he was spotted standing outside strip club Stringfellows with Pete Wicks during a late night.

It comes after rumours circulated earlier in the summer suggesting a possible split between Sam and Zara. Reports claimed they had a major argument, with Zara reportedly leaving their London home and staying at her family's place.

In June, Zara was captured in a photo that seemed to show her shouting at Sam after his appearance for England at Soccer Aid 2024. The images depicted the couple having what appeared to be a heated exchange in public, with Zara gesturing emphatically with her finger at Sam following the high-profile event's afterparty.

They were engrossed in an intense discussion as they awaited their taxi. However, Zara clarified the nature of their 'argument' amidst speculation about their relationship issues.

She humorously addressed the incident on social media, saying, "Why did this make me laugh so much btw," and explained, "'Stop saying you should have scored! ! ! ! You did your best and that's all that matters! ! ! ! You need to stop doubting yourself! ! ! It looks like we are having an argument but I'm actually telling him positive affirmations in a very passionate manner! [laughing-face emojis]."