Joe Simpson Defends Himself Against 'Interfering' Accusations 6/4/08

Jessica Simpson's dad Joe has hit out at claims he prompted her split from American footballer Tony Romo by interfering with her love life.

Although neither party have confirmed their split, American tabloids claim they ended their relationship last month (May08) because Romo grew sick of Joe meddling with their romance.

It is claimed he planned to sell an exclusive story about their engagement, reports Us Weekly. But Joe - also Jessica and sister Ashlee's manager - insists he hasn't stepped over the line, telling the magazine, "It's unfair to criticize me for what every manager does for his or her clients. And in this business, where people can quickly turn on you, who better than a parent to be working for his children?

"A parent will always be there for his kids and never give up on them. I work hard seven days a week for my girls because I love them. Why in the world would I ever want to do anything that would hurt my children?"