Miley Cyrus is apparently "painfully lonely".
The former Disney star was engaged to The Hunger Games' Liam Hemsworth, but they announced their breakup in September 2013.
She's since focused on her singing career, which has included plenty of raunchy dance routines and revealing stage costumes.
Miley, 21, might look like she's having the time of her life, but insiders say she's putting on a front for her fans.
“Being alone has always been a fear of Miley’s, and she tried to pretend after the split with Liam that she enjoyed her newfound freedom - but the fact of the matter is that she’s painfully lonely,” a source told RadarOnline.
“Now she’s living alone in this big empty house, no boyfriend to speak of, and when it comes to friends she doesn’t have any real meaningful connections. She’s surrounded by party people or friends of convenience.”
The We Can't Stop singer's current Bangerz Tour has proved popular with her fans, but hasn't gone entirely to plan.
Her tour bus was recently targeted in an attack, speculated to be the act of religious protesters, which saw the vehicle go up in flames.
Miley has been linked to stars including Jared Leto since her split from Liam, but hasn't had another serious relationship yet.
Apparently the star is keener to find a boyfriend than she'll let on.
“Being on her tour helps a bit right now because her backup dancers, singers and crew are [there]… but the tour ends in June. Then what?” the insider added.
“Miley’s lonely and whether it looks like it or not, she’d like to find a guy to settle down with.”
It is thought Miley and Liam were on the rocks for a long time before they announced they had separated.
She has previously admitted that the relationship went on for longer than it should have.
"I was so scared of ever being alone, and I think, conquering that fear, this year, was actually bigger than any other transition that I had, this entire year," she said. "I don't ever want to have to need someone again, where you feel like, without them, you can't be yourself."
