Kim Kardashian ‘unites family’

Kim Kardashian's family would reportedly be "devastated" if she turned her back on their empire as she is the "lynchpin" of the brood.

The reality TV star began dating superstar rapper Kanye West earlier this year, with the pair proving inseparable ever since. There have been reports that Kim is considering turning her back on the public lifestyle that made her famous on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, much to the annoyance of her family.

"Since becoming 'Kanye's girlfriend', Kim's life has completely changed. She's found that she's getting more respect than she did before, and more doors are opened for her," a source told British magazine Heat.

"Kim is the Kardashian family lynchpin. The whole empire is based around her, and it is her celebrity status that drives the brand. For her to turn her back on it would not only be a devastating blow to the family, but most of all to her mom Kris too."

Kim has been given a style overhaul by Kanye. Sources say the star's "strong influence" hasn't "gone unnoticed".

"Kim is terrified it could cause a huge rift. For years, Kris [her mother] has had total control over her daughter's career but now it's Kanye who seems to be calling the shots with Kim," the insider added.

Kim famously shot to fame after a sex tape of her and her then-boyfriend Ray J was made public.

According to a new report on RadarOnline.com, Kanye has also filmed an intimate movie. The site claims to have seen the 20 minute footage, which allegedly shows Kanye getting intimate with a brunette woman who looks like Kim.

The site reports the tape was filmed before Kanye and Kim got together.