AceShowbiz - Joey Lawrence's co-star Melina Alves denied having an extramarital affair with him. When setting the record straight, the "Until Forever" star insisted that they are just friends and never got sexual.

"It is with a deep sadness and heavy heart that I must address the recent allegations about the relationship between myself and Joey Lawrence, which have unfortunately become a public matter," the 40-year-old wrote on Instagram on Wednesday, August 28. "As a private person, it is deeply distressing to see such personal and sensitive issues being discussed so openly and inaccurately."

"I want to clarify that there was no sexual relationship between Joey and myself while we were on set filming Socked in for Christmas," she added. "Our relationship was a meaningful friendship that developed naturally due to the many similarities in our personal situations.

Melina went on to note, "When I met Joey, I was immediately struck by his kindness, warmth and genuine character." She further explained, "We found common ground in our shared experiences, which led to a strong supportive friendship that has been a source of strength for both of us."

Melina also claimed that she and her estranged husband, Edward Rider, had been separated since January 2023 and were "living in separate rooms." She shared, "Our marriage had been struggling for some time, and the separation was a necessary step for both of us."

"I have always valued my privacy, and it is incredibly painful to have such personal matters thrust into the public eye in a way that has caused harm not only to me but also to Joey, who has been unjustly dragged into this situation," Melina lamented. "I ask for understanding and respect for our privacy as we navigate these difficult circumstances... I hope this clarification can help put an end to the speculation and allow both Joey and myself to move forward without further intrusion."

Sources close to Ed, however, revealed to TMZ that he and Melina were not estranged and were still living together earlier this year when he filed for divorce. The actress allegedly went "ballistic" when Ed submitted the divorce papers, asking a court to get a temporary restraining order.

Joey has yet to address the affair rumors. The actor himself has separated from Samantha Cope, who filed for divorce on August 6 and cited "irreconcilable differences."