Mel B's mother snub

Sunday, 29 March 2009

Mel B hasn't spoken to her family for five months.

The former Spice Girl hasn't been in contact with either her mother, Andrea, or sister, Danielle, for nearly half a year, and they are blaming her husband, movie producer Stephen Belafonte, for the rift.

Danielle said: "She is wrapped up in her own little world. Mel hasn't spoken to her own mother in months. She has a husband now so she just doesn't find the time.

"He doesn't help. To be honest, I don't think he's a very nice person."

Stephen - who married Mel in 2007 - has been accused of cheating on her by his ex-girlfriend, Nicole Contreras, who claimed last year he slept with her behind Mel's back and begged her to take him back just before his wedding. She also alleged he is violent and jealous and once tried to strangle her.

When asked if she thought Stephen's domineering nature was behind Mel snub to her family, Danielle, 28, said: "Yeah. It doesn't help Mel's situation. It's hard not hearing from her, but I'm getting used to it now."

Mel - who has daughters Phoenix Chi, 10, and Angel Iris, one, from previous relationships - has admitted she and Stephen often have heated arguments, but maintains he is her "best friend".

She said: "Of course we argue! We are like any normal couple who argue. I always win though!

"I love being married to Stephen and we couldn't be happier. I'm so lucky to have met him and to have such a fabulous husband."