Chaz Bono and Jennifer Elia Call Off Engagement

Chaz Bono and fiance Jennifer Elias have called off their engagement.

Their representative, Howard Bragman, said: “[They] are no longer a couple. They leave this relationship with great love, respect and affection toward one another. No further amplification will be forthcoming and they ask that you respect their privacy at this time.”

The New York Post reports that the breakup is surprising since Elia stuck with Chaz through his female-to-male gender transition which began in 2008. Elia was also cheering Chaz on throughout his experience on “Dancing With the Stars.”

Elia did admit, however, that it was difficult dealing with Chaz’ transition. Elia said:

“It was really hard… We had to really almost re-learn how to communicate and how to be around each other.”

The couple’s relationship, and Chaz Bono’s proposal to Elia, were the focus of the documentary “Becoming Chaz.” The film debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and later aired on the Oprah Winfrey Network.

Are you surprised that Jennifer Elia and Chaz Bono have called off their engagement?