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Newlyweds Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz announced they are expecting their first child together.

Posted May 30, 2008 by LisaWeseman

After weeks of pregnancy rumors, a promise to Ellen to (eventually) tell the truth about her pregnancy, and a lavish wedding,  Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz have finally confirmed that they are expecting their first child.

As they did with their engagement, the couple announced the news on their website with a short statement:

"While many have speculated about this, we wanted to wait until after the first trimester to officially confirm that we are expecting our first child. This is truly the most joyous time in our lives and we are excited to share the happy news and start our family."

But like so many stars today, the soon-to-be-parents were criticized in the press for not fessing up to the pregnancy sooner. Pete, in a surprisingly thoughtful move for a twenty-something Hollywood father-to-be, took the time to address his critics in an email to MTV:

"Every woman, no matter who they are or what they do for a living, has the right to wait at least 3 months before sharing this very personal news. We wanted to wait until after the first trimester and get a clean bill of health from our doctors before confirming anything, just like any other couple...  I apologize to anyone who felt misinformed but the truth is, the person and growing baby is who I felt most loyal to protect and defend."

Indeed.

When news of singer Lily Allen's pregnancy was leaked last December by a British tabloid, her spokesperson confirmed the news by saying, "As the pregnancy is at a very, very early stage, the couple ask that you respect their privacy, as the health of Lily and their child is their paramount concern."  A month later, the sad news broke that Allen had suffered a miscarriage.

Though there's often a disconnect between celebrities who demand press coverage while simultaneously requesting privacy -- Pete and Ashlee took home a reported $1.6 million for their recent wedding cover story for People magazine -- if a baby is involved, even the most press-hungry stars deserve a little breathing room.