Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas 'Separated' Claim New Reports

Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas are 'taking a break,' a source tells People magazine

Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas are 'taking a break,' a source tells People magazine.

Rumours that the celebrity couple, who have been together for almost 13 years and have two children together (Dylan, 13, and Carys, 10), are reportedly on the rocks surfaced recently, sparked because the two seem to be keeping their distance from one another.

The last time the duo appeared on a red carpet together was in April of this year, and both recently took separate holidays, reports People.

According to the magazine, a source disclosed that while neither A-lister has filed for divorce, 'they're taking a break.' The couple reportedly came to the decision to take some time apart after Douglas returned from the Cannes Film Festival in May.

Insiders also claim that storms the couple have weathered - from Douglas' 2010 battle with throat cancer to Zeta-Jones' struggles with bipolar II disorder - have caused difficulties in their marriage.

'The stress has taken a toll on their marriage,' a friend tells the publication.

Those close to the couple are optimistic the two will work things out, with a friend telling People:

'They want the best for their kids, no matter what happens.'

Catherine Zeta-Jones style highs & lows

Catherine Zeta-Jones talks acting vs family

All the latest celebrity news

Got a tablet? You can now download Marie Claire magazine straight to your iPad, Kindle (just search the store for Marie Claire magazine), Nook or Google Nexus.