A new Hollywood feud has emerged this week after Nick Lachey revealed that his ex-wife Jessica Simpson flew first class while her three children and estranged husband Eric Johnson sat in coach during a flight to Hawaii. Days later, Simpson clapped back, explaining that the seating arrangement was not her decision.
Simpson Responds to Photographers
On Wednesday, photographers asked Simpson if Lachey's claims were true. The 45-year-old fashion designer confirmed the story but clarified that it was not her fault. 'My mom bought those tickets,' she said, referring to her mother Tina Ann Drew, who works with her at Simpson's fashion empire. The tickets were a treat for the family trip to Hawaii.
When asked if she would have sat with her kids had she booked the tickets herself, Simpson replied, 'Of course!' She was not questioned about why Johnson was also on the trip.
Lachey's Account of the Flight
The former 98 Degrees singer confirmed TMZ's reports during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. Lachey said he was on the same six-and-a-half-hour flight to Hawaii with his 'whole family,' including wife Vanessa Lachey. He noted that Simpson was with her mother in first class, while her ex Johnson and their children were seated in a different section of the plane.
'Everyone was very, very cordial, very respectful,' Lachey said. 'I believe her kids and her - I'm not familiar with where they stand at this point, but her husband? But they were all on the plane, but not with us. It was honestly, it was fine!'
Cohen pointed out that the children were placed in a 'separate class of service,' which Lachey confirmed, looking uncomfortable.
Previous Reports of the Run-In
Last month, TMZ reported that the former couple felt uncomfortable during the encounter. Simpson allegedly switched seats to distance herself from Lachey, who turned 'bright red' upon seeing her. However, a source told People that the interaction was 'amicable and cordial,' with Lachey, Simpson, and Vanessa all having a nice conversation.
Background of Simpson and Lachey
Simpson and Lachey met in 1998, split briefly in 2001, and married in 2002. They starred in the MTV reality show Newlyweds from 2003 to 2005, which brought them immense fame. They divorced in 2006 citing irreconcilable differences. Lachey later married Vanessa Minnillo in 2011, and they have three children together.
