Jessica Simpson breaks bread with Governor
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-02-26 10:37

SANTA FE, N.M. - Jessica Simpson took a break from filming her latest movie to dine with Gov. Bill Richardson, his wife and others at the governor's mansion.

Simpson, who is in Santa Fe filming "Employee of the Month," ate with the governor Thursday night. The film is the fifth shot in New Mexico by Lions Gate Entertainment, an independent production and distribution studio.

"The governor feels very strongly about getting involved personally to promote New Mexico's film industry," Richardson spokesman Pahl Shipley said.

Richardson has rolled out the red carpet for other celebrities. Most recently, he dined at the mansion with Irish actor Liam Neeson.

Simpson was joined at the mansion by her parents, Lions Gate executives and members of the governor's staff. The dinner lasted about two hours and included a menu of chicken roulade, potatoes and green chili-stuffed tomato.