"We know there has been a lot of speculation recently about Pete and I, and we wanted our fans to be the first to know, because you guys are the best," Simpson said in a statement posted Wednesday on People magazine's Web site. "Yes, we are thrilled to share that we are happily engaged."
Simpson's manager-father, /*Joe Simpson*/, told the magazine he's "totally happy" and "so excited to have Pete as part of (our) family."
The couple began dating in fall 2006, according to People.
/*Pete Wentz*/, 28, is bassist for Fall Out Boy. Simpson, 23, a singer, songwriter and actress, is the younger sister of pop star Jessica Simpson. /*Ashlee Simpson's*/ new album, "Bittersweet World," is set for release on April 22.
A phone message left Wednesday for Joe Simpson by The Associated Press was not immediately returned.
On the Net:
People: http://www.people.com/people
