Wentz defends Simpson pregnancy denial

Pete Wentz has defended his decision to keep news of wife Ashlee Simpson's pregnancy under wraps.

The Fall Out Boy rocker confirmed reports that the couple are expecting their first child on Wednesday after previously describing them as "crazy".

He said he had initially denied the rumours out of concern for the health of mother and baby, telling MTV: "Every woman, no matter who they are or what they do for a living, has the right to wait at least three months before sharing this very personal news.

"We wanted to wait until after the first trimester before confirming anything, just like any other couple. Being a boy, I have no idea how to respond to such things and my first instinct was to protect her and the baby."

Wentz, who married the singer in California earlier this month, added: "It's insane that you can't let happy news brew in Hollywood.

"I apologise to anyone who felt misinformed but the truth is, the person and growing baby is who I felt most loyal to protect and defend."