OK, so this story is almost definitely made up, but it's still hilarious.
Ashlee Simpson is developing a new talk show for MTV. Information about the show is limited, which means it's time for the rumors to fly. British tabloid The Daily Star is reporting that Jessica Simpson was to play Ashlee's co-host, but she now has been replaced...
...
By a monkey.
Yes, rumor is that producers thought a monkey would be quirkier and funnier than Jessica Simpson.
In fairness, this is no ordinary monkey. The monkey in question is the chimp from Fall Out Boy's "Thnks Fr Th Mmrs" video. The monkey has also been traveling with Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz, even attending the recent Kerrang! Awards.
Here is what the Daily Star's "inside source" said (via Fametastic):
Ashlee is working on a new chat show for a top US network under the working title The Ashlee Simpson Show.
She has a strong following among the new rock kids, especially as she and [boyfriend Pete Wentz] are the hottest couple right now - that's the demographic they're after.
Ashlee rather loyally wanted Jessica to be her co-host. But bosses weren't keen as Jessica is seen as a bit naff. She's older and linked to a different world of celebrity.
The show's producers want a quirky show. They thought it would be really funny to have the monkey co-host the show.
She's going to be the rock monkey and will ‘direct' other bands coming on the show. Sadly, this format change meant there was no place for Jessica. The monkey is the co-host they want. It must be a blow for her.
Two things to keep in mind...
1) The chances of this rumor being real are 0.002%. Except for the part about Ashlee having a show and the monkey going to the Kerrang! Awards; those parts are true.
2) It's still f'ing hilarious.
