'Newlyweds' to split up: Jessica wants last name Simpson back

'Newlyweds' to split up: Jessica wants last name Simpson back

LOS ANGELES: The couple that got its claim to fame from the MTV reality show 'Newlyweds' are soon to divorce. Actress-singer Jessica Simpson Lachey filed a divorce petition against husband Nick Lachey.

In her petition, Jessica asked the court to restore her maiden name. Last month, the couple had jointly announced their decision to separate, ending months of rumors that their marriage was on the rocks.

Citing “irreconcilable differences”, the actress wanted out from the marriage and urged the court not grant any spousal support to Nick.

The photogenic couple earned their fame and money after the reality show 'Newlyweds' and the television special 'The Nick & Jessica Variety Hour'. The blond actress also won the lead role in the 2005 film 'Duke of Hazzards'.

She began her singing career at age 12, singing in a church coir. In her teens, she toured with the boy band 98 Degrees of which Nick was a member. She made her debut as a singer with 'Sweet Kisses' in 1999.

The band had a successful run until their last hit single Give Me Just One Night after which they split up. Nick and Jessica married in 2002 and the MTV signed them on for their reality show 'Newlyweds' documenting the first years of their marriage. The show put them in the spotlight right away. However, Jessica was getting more of the limelight than hubby Nick.

Their individual earning power also moved in different directions. Nick who had been earning more than Jessica before the marriage in 2002, seemed to be fading from sight while Jessica seemed to be enjoying all the attention. Last year alone she earned over $30 million through her albums, TV commercials and the film.

Celebrity lawyer Robert Kaufman is representing Jessica Simpson.