LOS ANGELES - After weeks of rumors, singer Justin Timberlake and actress Cameron Diaz confirmed on Thursday they had broken up after more than three years as one of the highest-profile celebrity couples.

"It has always been our preference not to comment on the status of our relationship, but, out of respect for the time we spent together, we feel compelled to do so now, in the light of recent speculation and inaccurate stories that are being reported by the media," they said in a joint statement.

"We have, in fact, ended our romantic relationship and have done so mutually and as friends with continued love and respect for each other."

The rumors of a split reached a fever pitch this week with the kickoff of Timberlake's 36-date FutureSex/LoveShow tour at which "Charlie's Angels" star Diaz was conspicuously absent.

According to People Magazine, Timberlake told the crowd, "Sometimes love isn't easy." The magazine said the couple often dodged breakup rumors but quoted sources as saying this time it was real.

Us Weekly said the 25-year-old Timberlake's bitter breakup with Diaz, 34, drove him into the arms of her worst enemy, 22-year-old actress Scarlett Johansson.