Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux 'wanted to start a family'

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux had reportedly wanted to start a family after they got together.

The Hollywood couple and “best friends” announced their split earlier this month with a joint statement, saying the decision "was mutual and lovingly made".

And source close to the actress has now claimed that the pair had wanted children but it never happened.

The insider told PEOPLE: “When Jen met Justin, she had almost given up on the idea that she would have kids.

“They wanted to have a baby, but it didn’t work out. She has been sad that it never happened but it never consumed her.”

Standard Online has contacted representatives for Aniston and Theroux for comment.

The celebrity couple tied the knot in a private Los Angeles ceremony back in August 2015, having been together for four years.

A source told PEOPLE that the 49-year-old actress has “seemed fine” since separating from the director.

The insider said: “Jen has continued her life as usual. She has seemed fine. There has been no indication that she is upset.

“She and Justin started out as friends, and always admired each other a lot. It seems they will continue to be friends.”