As fast as rumors leaked on Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey split, the celebrity duo were ready to fire back with a joint statement denying the rumors, Star magazine reports.

"Nick and Jessica have not separated," according to a statement issued on behalf of the couple. "Rumors to the contrary are simply not true."

The latest editions of both Us Weekly and Life & Style both feature cover stories touting the demise of the Simpson-Lachey union.

"Yes, we're married, and we love each other," Jessica Simpson told OK! magazine half a year ago.

When asked why Jessica wasn't wearing her pricey engagement ring at the time of the interview, she replied, "I don't need diamonds on my finger to show that I love my husband."

Both Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey have been photographed without engagement or wedding rings recently.

Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson's third wedding anniversary is approaching on October 26. The couple wed in 2002, when Jessica Simpson was touted as a less famous version of Britney Spears and Nick Lachey with 98 Degrees band.

Jessica Simpson rocketed to fame virtually overnight on the success of their MTV reality show, Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica.

Today, after the success of "Dukes of Hazzard" movie, Jessica Simpson enjoys the popularity of her skincare and makeup line, Dessert Beauty, while Nick Lachey is set to star in Abercrombie&Finch campaign. 

 Other news