British paper reports 'strains' in Madonna marriage

Feb 3, 2006, 11:03 GMT

London - A British tabloid newspaper Friday reported 'strains' in the marriage between US-popstar Madonna and her film producer husband, Guy Ritchie, as the pop queen spent more and more time with producer Stuart Price.

'Is Madonna's career killing her?', asked the Daily Mirror headline Friday.

According to the paper, Ritchie, 37, is reported to have said: 'It's as if work is the only thing that interests her.'

The superstar, 47, is pictured leaving Stuart's flat in north London after 'nearly three hours there behind closed blinds,' and is said to chat to him on the phone several times daily, often for long periods.

Stuart, 28, masterminded her Confessions On A Dance floor album. She has likened working with him to 'falling for a new lover.'

One source said: 'It's no secret that Madonna and Stuart have developed a special working relationship. After all, they worked together very closely on her album. They enjoy each other's company and respect each other.'

Ritchie's father, John, told the paper the marriage had its problems but remained strong.

Madonna's publicist, Liz Rosenberg, said: 'There's no strain in Madonna's marriage. Her relationship with Guy is quite good. They're quite happy.'

Madonna has a 5-year-old boy, Rocco, with Ritchie, and a daughter, Lourdes, now 9, from her previous liaison with dancer Carlos Leon.