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Nick and Jessica Separation Reports 'Not True'

Wednesday, October 05, 2005

10:36 AM PT

Despite reports that Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson are calling it quits, a spokesperson for the couple simply says the rumor is "not true."

Celebrity gossip magazine US Weekly's cover story claims that the pop music couple featured on MTV's "Newlyweds" are splitting and lays the blame on Simpson's doorstep, with a headline declaring, "Details on Jessica & Nick's last days -- and how her ego, partying and dad drove them apart."

Representatives for the couple deny the story. "Nick and Jessica have not separated. Rumors to the contrary are simply not true," reads a statement on behalf of both the singers.

Followers of the bickering couple may recall that earlier in the year, an online story about the chanteuse filing for divorce was leaked and immediately pulled. Rumor has it that although the story was genuine, Simpson wanted to wait a few months to officially file in order to discredit the website.

Nick and Jessica's obvious incompatibility has sparked rumors of a split on and off ever since their MTV show aired. If a production assistant at the 2004 Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting ceremony is to be believed, Simpson alternately ignored and yelled at Lachey, who didn't bother to conceal his own bitterness.

In an email circulating the Internet, the PA says that when the former 98 Degrees singer was asked for comments that could be used for Simpson's introduction, he replied, "Not too many nice things to say about her ... How about she was the best stocking I ever stuffed? She was the best chimney I've ever come down on." The words were allegedly said angrily, without any indication of humor.

Other rough spots along the way include rumors of Simpson's coziness with "Dukes of Hazzard" co-star Johnny Knoxville and her father Joe Simpson's creepy interest in her career and bosom.

Simpson, 25, appeared with her husband on "Newlyweds" and on variety and USO specials on ABC. She made her silver screen debut as Daisy Dukes in this summer's "Dukes of Hazzard."

Lachey, 31, has been making a name for himself separate from the blonde diva. He's currently contributing to ESPN's "College GameDay" and recently signed a talent deal with The WB, the network that gave him a recurring part on "Charmed" last season. He's also made guest appearances on "Hope & Faith" and "I'm with Her" and co-starred in the ABC pilot "Hot Mom" in 2004.

Simpson first met Lachey while on tour for her debut album "Sweet Kisses." They were married in 2002. She discussed her nuptials in her book "I Do: Achieving Your Dream Wedding."