Mayer dumps Simpson

John Mayer reportedly ended his brief relationship with Jessica Simpson after members of her entourage leaked intimate details of their relationship to the media.

The budding relationship came to light last week and Simpson even appeared on the cover of American publication People with the headline "I'm in Love".

Mayer posted a cryptic message on his official website Thursday, when rumours went into overdrive about the pair saying: "Don't believe the hype," and both parties are now back-peddling.

Simpson appeared on US talk show The View yesterday to promote her new album, ironically titled A Public Affair.

When she was asked by co-host Rosie O'Donnell if she was seeing Mayer she said: "I'm actually not dating John Mayer. He's my friend."

The reclusive musician was reportedly shocked when private details of his relationship with Simpson were printed in the press and has since cut off any contact.

A pal of Mayer tells American publication Us Weekly the relationship was "a '2', (but) her camp spun into an '11'".

The friend says the musician has lost respect for Simpson and "now he will stay away from her. He thinks it's desperate. An attempt for her to stay in the spotlight."

A source close to Simpson confirms the relationship has cooled saying: "She met a guy who was scared away by all the attention."

Mayer's pal adds: "It's very clear to John who was pushing this story. And it's also very clear to him that Jessica is under a lot of pressure to sell an album."