Highlights

• Ryan Seacrest's busy TV schedule contributed to his break-up with Aubrey Paige.
• Critics shamed the couple for their age gap, with some expressing relief over their split.
• Despite Aubrey's desire for marriage and kids, Ryan's future plans remain unknown.

Ryan Seacrest and Aubrey Paige are remaining silent on the reason for their break-up last month, despite fan speculation, but now a new report claims it has the reason for their split – Ryan wasn’t making time for Aubrey.

“She wants marriage and kids. That shouldn’t come as a shock,” a source told Closer Weekly. However, it sounds like Ryan’s demanding career – and his unwillingness to prioritize his relationship – led to the end.

Ryan’s T.V. Career Got In The Way of His Relationship

“Ryan’s so busy, and that didn’t help,” the insider continued, noting Ryan’s obligations on multiple T.V. shows, including American Idol, Wheel of Fortune, and On Air With Ryan Seacrest. “His schedule left little time for Aubrey as it was, so they decided it was best to call it quits.”

Following the couple’s break-up, reports said it was amicable and there were no hard feelings. "After three beautiful years together, Ryan and Aubrey have mutually decided to part ways," a source stated to PEOPLE . "They plan to stay in each other’s lives as good friends and support one another’s endeavors."

Aubrey and Ryan are clearly being careful with what they said about their split (or, more accurately, what they don’t say), but Aubrey had a message for critics who’ve been discussing break-up theories online. Posting a photo of herself sipping wine while in a bikini enjoying a pool, she wrote, "S/O to my haters, this one’s for you. Happy #winewednesday.”

Ryan And Aubrey’s Age Gap Was Always Controversial

Though Aubrey seemed unbothered by the speculation surrounding their break-up, as evidenced by her caption, some of her followers still left their critical thoughts about the age gap between her and Ryan, which has been called inappropriate since they were first romantically connected a year ago.

“Ryan’s parents seem so conservative this must be embarrassing for them," one comment said, expressing happiness the two had finally called off their relationship. Another one was even more candid, saying, "Happy they broke up. Way too young and embarrassing to Ryan."

A third comment added, "I’m so happy you broke up before you’re too old to find someone to marry and have kids with! But good for you that you got three years of fabulous 1st class travel in with Ryan!!"

While Aubrey, 26, may be keen to start a family, it remains unclear where Ryan, 49, stands on the subject, given he’s never been married or expressed a desire for kids despite his personal life being a subject of public fascination. What’s clear, however, is that his loved ones want to see him settle down, though it looks like he’s starting back at square one given his recent break-up.

“They want him and Aubrey to start a family,” a source told Closer Magazine. “Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan have both been telling him about the joys of fatherhood, and during a live American Idol airing, Katy Perry actually yelled at him, ‘Yes, it’s time!’”

Who knows, perhaps Ryan’s dating life will become a storyline on one of his many shows.