Melina Alves has spoken out regarding rumors of an affair with her Socked in for Christmas co-star, Joey Lawrence. In an Instagram post on Aug. 28, Alves addressed the claims about her relationship with Lawrence, following his estranged wife, Samantha Cope’s, decision to file for divorce earlier in the month. Sources had told PEOPLE that Cope and Lawrence parted ways after he allegedly became romantically involved with Alves during filming.
Expressing her “deep sadness” over the allegations, Alves clarified that her relationship with Lawrence was strictly a friendship formed while working on the holiday movie. “First and foremost, I want to be clear: there was no sexual relationship between Joey and me during the filming of Socked in for Christmas,” Alves asserted. She explained that their bond was a natural outcome of the many similarities in their personal lives.
Melina Alves asks for privacy as she refutes affair rumors with Joey Lawrence, focusing on their professional and supportive friendship
She emphasized Lawrence’s kindness and warmth, and how their shared experiences formed the basis of a “strong, supportive friendship” that has been a source of strength for both of them. Providing more context, Alves revealed that she and her ex-husband, Edward Rider, have been estranged since January 2023, living in separate rooms during that time. She explained that their marriage had been struggling for a while, and their separation was a necessary step for both parties.
Alves also mentioned that the situation has been difficult to endure, particularly because it has dragged Lawrence into a matter that was never intended to go public. She asked for privacy as she navigates these challenging times and expressed hope that the clarification would end the speculation.
Cope filed for divorce from Lawrence on Aug. 13, citing irreconcilable differences and requesting full physical custody of their daughter, Dylan, while allowing Lawrence visitation rights at her discretion.
