Jessica Simpson's Parents' Marriage 'Has Been Dead For Years,' Says Source

Just hours after a report broke that Jessica Simpson’s dad was having an affair with another man, Joe and Tina Simpson have confirmed their split.

"Tina and Joe Simpson have filed for divorce," a rep for the family tells me. "It is an amicable split and there is no third party involved. Any other related allegations are completely false. The family appreciates your respect for their privacy at this time."

And while news of the breakup may come as a surprise to the public, insiders say the marriage has been in trouble for a long time.

"Papa Joe and Tina just grew apart," one insider tells me. "The marriage was held together by their daughters' careers. Joe handled the music side and Tina the fashion. But as both Jessica and Ashlee's music careers came to an end, Jessica's fashion business took off suddenly. It was Tina that was in charge. Joe had a hard time finding his role."

Jessica's fashion line -- in which her mother, Tina, is very involved -- is reportedly on track to make over $1 billion for the former singer-turned-reality star.

"Tina and Joe will always love and respect each other," said a friend. "They are just no longer in love and haven't been for a long time. The marriage has been dead for years."