The romance between actress Yuko Ito (35) and comedian Ken Watabe (36) has been over since last year, it was learned last week. The pair had been going out for more than three years and were thought to be nearing marriage, but they reportedly broke up about a year ago.

According to a source close to the couple, Ito and Watabe had grown apart due to their busy careers. Ito's agency confirmed that this was the case. Watabe's management also acknowledged the breakup later in the week.