LeAnn Rimes Refuses to Discuss Alleged Affair
"My personal life has taken its ups and downs," said a chipper LeAnn Rimes on 'The Today Show' Monday morning.
The country singer visited New York's NBC studios Monday to promote her new book, 'What I Cannot Change.' She explained to 'Today' host Matt Lauer that the song of the same title was written during a "dark time" in her life, several years ago. But to a more recent dark time is where the interview drifted.
After mentioning an US Weekly magazine cover story that accuses Rimes of having an affair with actor Eddie Cibrian, Lauer read a statement from the actor, vehemently denying the story. He then asked Rimes to set the record straight.
"It's hard to continue to go back and forth in the press, because it's really hurtful to myself, hurtful to my loved ones," she responded. "I refuse to discuss tabloid rumors. I've grown up in the press my whole life. I think people are fascinated with my personal life. And I totally get it."
Rimes, who kept a smile on her face throughout the interview, expressed gratitude for those who've stuck by her during the tough times. She's also grateful for her fame, despite the sometimes invasive press that comes with it.
"I love what I do. I'm passionate about what I do. I get to write books like this and write songs like this and affect people's lives," she said. "I think through the song 'What I Cannot Change,' having touched so many people, that's what I believe I'm here to do. And it's such a blessing."
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