Michael Le Vell has split from his girlfriend Blanca Fouche.
After recently being cleared of 12 charges relating to sexual abuse of a minor, the star has parted ways with the primary school teaching assistant, claiming he now wants some time alone.
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "Michael has been through the toughest ordeal of his life.
"He just needs some time and space to be on his own, get his head right and rebuild his life.
"It's a very difficult time and they are still close.
"However, they are both understandably upset. They've both been through a hell of a lot lately."
Michael, 48, started dating Chilean Blanca, 31, in May after moving in with a friend a few doors down from him in Manchester.
Michael's sister, Susan Westcott, was full of praise for her when the trial concluded earlier this month, saying: "Blanca came along at the right time for him.
"He's a private guy who doesn't say much about the girls he sees. But, as his sister, I just want to see him happy. It's the least he deserves."
Michael had temporarily split with Blanca in June, as he was awaiting the trial, but they got back together before it started.
During his trial Michael admitted to drinking up to 12 pints of beer a night, and although some friends are worried he could go back to drinking heavily in the wake of his split, others are sure he will stay strong.
A friend said: "Michael has a strong head on his shoulders and while he is really down, he's determined to keep it together. Drink isn't the answer."
Tagged in Michael Le Vell