Nick Lachey recently opened up about his encounter with his ex Jessica Simpson while on a plane. However, what got many talking was his statement that she was in first class while her three children were in coach. Now, the “Sweetest Sin” singer is revealing the difference in travel between her and her kids.
According to Page Six, the paparazzi spoke to Simpson at LAX on May 20. When asked about her children flying in a different part of the plane, the singer confirmed that it was, in fact, true. However, regarding the reasoning, she stated that she wasn’t the person who purchased the plane tickets.
She revealed, “My mom bought those tickets.” Simpson then added context, stating, “It was my mom’s treat for us to go to Hawaii.” After that, the interviewer asked the mom of three if they would have all flown in the same class had she purchased the tickets.
The former MTV star replied, “Of course!” Regarding her kids, she shares three with ex-husband Eric Johnson. Their ages are 7, 12, and 14.
Here’s What Nick Lachey Said
Lachey appeared on Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live” in May 2026. While on, host Andy Cohen mentioned the rumors that he and Simpson had bumped into each other while traveling. The “Love Is Blind” host confirmed that this was the case.
He described the encounter, saying, “It was strangely okay. You know, it’s been 20 years, so we hadn’t seen each other in those 20 years and then spent six and a half hours on a flight to Hawaii together.” Lachey then clarified that he meant “in the same vicinity,” not that they interacted much.
Lachey also stated that everyone was “very cordial” and “very respectful.” From there, Cohen asked for specifics, leading the singer to note that Simpson was in first class with her mother. However, despite this, the kids, and maybe her ex, were in “a separate class of service.”
Fans Don’t Think It’s A Big Deal Jessica Traveled Separately
Following Lachey’s comments about Simpson and her response, the internet is weighing in. In a nutshell, most social media users agree that it’s not a big deal that the three kids didn’t fly with their mom. One person said, “What’s wrong with that? The children don’t belong in first class; they didn’t earn it. Good for her for not spoiling them.”
Someone else stated, “The kids got a mom-free flight, AND mom got a kid-free flight. Everybody won except Nick, apparently.” Another social media user gave their take, saying, “Kids on a plane… in coach… is like sitting in 1st class to them.”
Another person complimented, Simpson, noting, “A good parenting strategy to make sure your kids do not grow up to feel entitled to your money, like your ex-husband does.”
Regarding Lachey, one person said, “18 years divorced and STILL bringing Jessica up for clout. Let it go, Nick. We see the 98 Degrees tour promo from a mile away.” Another person replied to that user, writing, “He rarely talks about her to be fair.” Additionally, others noted how kindly Lachey spoke about Simpson despite the revelation about the separate travel.”
An Insider Previously Weighed In On The Flying Situation
Following Lachey’s initial comments about Simpson’s kids flying coach, an insider spoke to US Weekly about her reasoning. This comes as some even questioned the singer’s finances over the travel plans. The source revealed that the singer has “done this many times before.”
They continued, “She doesn’t believe her children should grow up thinking luxury is automatic just because their mother is famous. Her attitude is very straightforward. Jessica is the celebrity. The kids are not.”
The insider then went on to detail how Simpson’s family “struggled financially for years,” meaning she “values every opportunity she’s earned.” They then said, “Jessica wants them to understand the value of money. She never wanted to raise entitled Hollywood kids.”
Jessica Simpson Recently Found New Representation
Simpson launched a comeback in 2025, releasing the two-part EP “Nashville Canyon” in March of that year. Months later, she appeared on Hulu’s “All’s Fair.” According to Variety, she signed with Independent Artists Group in January 2026.
Independent Artists Group also represents well-known celebrities, including 50 Cent and Mary J. Blige. Currently, Simpson is on tour in support of her new music. She currently has performances lined up through October.