The Beckhams ultimately did file suit against News of the World, in response to a September 2004 story titled “Posh and Becks on the Rocks.” Then the tabloid published claims that a beautician named Danielle Heath had an affair with the athlete.
“We are sick and tired of people trying to make money at the expense of our family,” the Beckhams said in a statement. “It’s even more distressing when we are expecting our third son. These allegations are completely untrue and it is in the hands of our lawyers.”
The couple then amended the complaint in 2005 to include another NOTW story alleging, based on tales from a former nanny, that their marriage was a sham. They also sued the nanny, Abbie Gibson, who had worked for them since 2003, for breach of confidence.
“When you invite someone into your home to look after your children—your most precious possessions—you have to trust them,” David said in April 2005. “I can’t say much more because there is a legal process…What I will say, though, is that the reason I keep my mind on football is that me and my wife are happy. We are normal people, although people might not think that. Of course, we have arguments like everybody, but, at the end of the day, I know that I love my wife.”