Just rumours declares Mel

HAVING cleared the air regarding claims of abuse by husband Stephen Belafonte, Mel B now insists allegations that she was held captive are nothing but “stupid rumours”.

The 39- year- old X Factor judge and fi lm producer Stephen, 39, who have been married since 2007, were the subject of intense scrutiny when reports of domestic violence surfaced late last year.

And though the two have since released statements denying the accusations, Mel has clarifi ed her stance on another allegation. Speaking to reporters while out and about in LA, Mel laughed off the idea that Stephen was ever violent to her. “No, my husband didn’t hit me.”

The star was equally dismissive of allegations that she was held against her will in their home. “No I didn’t get held hostage,” she said before adding: “It’s all stupid rumours. Me and my husband are madly in love.”

Rumours of trouble at home surfaced in December when Mel was forced to cancel a number of X Factor appearances due to an unspecified illness and was later seen at the show’s fi nal without her wedding ring.

The former Spice Girl would go on to clarify that her absences were due to planned operations to fi x problems arising from botched laser eye surgery 15 years ago and reassured fans on social media that nothing was wrong between herself and Stephen.

“For the record my hubby would never lay a hand on me,” she wrote on Instagram. “Sorry took so long but any response fuels rumours.”