Jessica desperate to date

Showbiz

09:30 29 January 2006

Jessica Simpson is desperate to start dating again after splitting from husband Nick Lachey.

The gorgeous blonde wants a man but wants her estranged hubby to hook up first.

Jessica's father, Joe, is said to have told his daughter to wait - to protect her image.

A source told America's Life and Style magazine: "He's afraid her fans will think she doesn't give a damn about the split if she's suddenly kissing some guy."

However, a representative for the 25-year-old actress said: "Jess isn't ready to date yet. It has nothing to do with Joe."

Meanwhile, Nick has been seen with several women and was allegedly spotted kissing and holding hands with a female at a Los Angeles restaurant.

(c) BANG Media International