Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston have separated after 4 1/2 years of marriage but remain "committed and caring friends," the couple said on Friday. (tom photo)

    BEIJING, Jan. 13 -- Friends of split Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston are convinced their break-up is just the chance to step back before they start a family. They believe it is temporary.

    America's People magazine quoted one of the couple's close friends as saying: "They didn't want people to think the separation is a bad thing. The decision was good for them. They're getting along. They really care about each other."

    "The separation is a step back to see if their relationship is going to be forever or if it's not. They're searching for the answer, which is not an easy one to come up with."

    Pitt hinted at the trial separation last summer and said: "Neither of us wants to be the spokesperson for a happy marriage ... Jen and I always made a pact, that we'll see where this is going."

    There was no sign of tears or traumas as Brad Pitt arrived in Japan to promote his new film "Ocean's Twelve" Jan. 13 - just 5 days after announcing the end of his marriage, reports said.

(Source: CRIENGLISH.com/Agencies)