Jessica Simpson & Nick Lachey Deny Split

By: Shannon Gossage

Last week it was reported that Simpson and Lachey had split, but a publicist for the couple denied the reports. "Nick and Jessica have not separated. Rumors to the contrary are simply not true," said a statement released on behalf of the couple. Can they split-up already so we don’t have to hear about it anymore? They are on the cover of every tabloid in the supermarket checkout line. "Nick Busted With Another Woman! Jessica Spotted Without Her Wedding Ring! Nick & Jessica Split!" The last time they were spotted together publicly was at a September 11th football game. Nick was a no-show at sis-in-law Ashlee’s 21st birthday.

It was reported that Simpson was recently overheard during a flight to Los Angeles telling her best friend and assistant CaCee Cobb that "Nick doesn’t want me anymore!" Other sources cite Simpson’s overbearing father and her "diva-like" behavior as being behind the demise of the marriage. Said a source, "Jessica’s the problem. She’s not the girl America fell in love with anymore." As always, rumors that Lachey can’t stand being Mr. Jessica Simpson are still circulating.

Simpson and Lachey have battled rumors of a break-up since they became A-listers practically overnight with the success of Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica, their hit MTV reality show. Simpson said in a recent interview," Yes, we’re married, and we love each other." When asked why she was not sporting her engagement ring she quipped, "I don’t need diamonds on my finger to show that I love my husband." As we all know, they will deny that there is any marital strife right up until their divorce is finalized…if there is any truth to the rumors.