Paris Hilton and her rocker boyfriend Benji Madden have decided to go their separate ways after nine months together.

The pair - who gave Dennis Rodman and Carmen Electra a run for their money in the oddest couple stakes - have amicably called time on their rocky romance.

A source tells USmagazine.com, "Even though they are still in love, they felt it would be better to just be friends."

Benji's controlling nature was reportedly a factor in the break up.

The source adds, "Benji was overprotective and controlling. He doesn't get along with any of her friends.

"Friends thought Paris had changed since being with Benji and she wants to be herself again."

Paris recently spent time with her ex Stavros Niarchos in Miami although sources deny anything happened.