Halle's husband 'caught cheating'

Oscar winning star Halle Berry's marriage is in difficulties because her husband has been caught cheating, it was claimed today.

Friends of the actress said she was heartbroken over Eric Benet's betrayal with former love Julia Riley. R&B singer Benet, 36, spent two days with her in his Milwaukee apartment only days before he accompanied his wife to the Oscars ceremony, where she became the first black actress to win the best actress award for Monster Ball.

The pair have been married for 15 months and live in LA with Eric's 10-year-old daughter India, whom Halle, 33, is adopting.

But a source close to the couple said: "Eric has known Jules for years, she drives him wild.

"What's more she has always been there for him, which is more than anyone can say about Halle. Eric feels he is constantly in Halle's shadow."

Lawyers for the singer have denied the affair, but a close friend revealed: "Eric has never felt completely comfortable with Halle. He always complains she is moody and too tired for the physical side of their marriage."

Benet and model Riley first became lovers in 1995 and the singer dedicated his first solo album True To Myself to her.

Last night a friend of the actress said: "Halle is absolutely shocked and gutted. She can't understand why Eric would hurt her and India like this.

"Eric once told Halle he loved her no matter what. She warned him that if he fooled around, he would be out.

I don't know if their marriage is going to survive after all this."