Zayn Malik ends engagement

Former One Direction star Zayn Malik has ended his engagement to British singer Perrie Edwards.

The young couple, both 22, became engaged in 2013 and reportedly purchased a $4.8 million mansion near London in early July (15).

However, People.com reports Malik decided to call off their wedding plans two weeks ago.

A source tells the publication, "She's been putting on a brave face as (her band) Little Mix have had promotion to do, but she's obviously devastated."

Malik quit the boy band in March (15) and announced he had signed a new solo record deal with RCA Records last week (ends31Jul15). He has since been sharing photos of himself and his friends celebrating the new career move in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, Edwards fueled the split rumor after she was photographed without her diamond engagement ring. Her bandmate Jesy Nelson posted a snap of Edwards on Instagram.com on Monday (03Aug15), with her left ring finger bare as she sunbathed.

A representative for Malik has since confirmed the news to UsMagazine.com.

The break-up comes four months after Malik silenced rumors his relationship with his fiancee was on the brink of collapse after he was spotted holding hands with another woman in Thailand, just before he quit One Direction.

The pop star posted a selfie on Instagram of himself and Edwards posing at a sun-drenched coastal resort, with Malik kissing her cheek as she smiled.