A “source close to a cast member” reported that Ashlee Simpson was booted off of ‘Melrose Place’ because of a universal disdain for her amongst the Ashlee Simpson castmates.

The source explained the sour relationship between Ashlee Simpson and her castmates:

“[Ashlee Simpson] was kicked off ‘Melrose Place’ because she was a total diva on set, late all the time, and deeply disliked by fellow cast members. It created a lot of discord among the cast…[Ashlee Simpson] could barely act.

The source went on to explain that the producers wanted Heather Locklear to reprise a role she played earlier, but needed to cut someone due to her salary demands. Their choice ended up being Ashlee Simpson, and her interactions with her castmates.

“They basically trimmed the fat and made it possible for Heather to join the show. Heather is a much bigger name than Ashlee.”

The source also went on to report that Jack Wagner will be reprising his role on the popular show.