Former Big Brother stars Cat Law and Lawson Reeves split

Cat Law and Lawson Reeves, former Big Brother Housemates from the 2014 season of the show, have broken up.

"We broke up early this year," Cat told Mamamia.

"Breakups are really hard," Cat continued, revealing why the couple hadn't shared the news before now, "and I find it really hard to talk about when you're going through it because it's so emotional."

She said, "We don't have any ill will towards each other," but added she was limiting contact with her ex-boyfriend to help her move on.

Viewers may recall that Cat and Lawson, who were given the nickname 'Clawson', got together under controversial circumstances, since Lawson had a long-term girlfriend, Candice, in the outside world when he and Cat became a couple in the House.

Less controversial, but still a talking point, was the couple's age gap — he was a 23-year-old electrician (and magician), and she was 31 and divorced.

While he was still inside the House, Lawson became emotional over his actions.

"I never intended to hurt Candice," he said, breaking down in the Diary Room. "I can't even imagine how she would feel; Embarrassed I would assume. She's a really good person. I'm not. She definitely didn't deserve this. I think I'm sorry for ruining her life."

Despite the odds and the public sentiment against them, Cat and Lawson stayed together for four-and-a-half years after Big Brother, and Cat was adamant they did not date each other as a stunt.

"It was a relationship that wasn't for TV or for ratings or for getting us further in the game.

"It was something that developed unexpectedly and that's why the relationship lasted outside the house as well, because there was genuine feelings there."