Jessica Simpson has all the characteristics of the blonde sex symbol: the lovely face, gorgeous figure and unthreatening intellect that worked so well for Marilyn Monroe. And like the legendary film star, Jessica is much shyer and smarter than we think.

Jessica Simpson is as famous for her looks as for her singing or acting. The curvy blonde is one of America's leading pin-ups who, in spite of her warm smile and show business skills, is really a somewhat shy person. Born July 10, 1980 in Abilene, Texas, Jessica is a Cancer, a sign better known for its self-protective and introverted nature than for the brass associated with being a sex symbol. This isn't to say that Cancers can't be sexy or outgoing, but Jessica may be playing against type when she's wearing Daisy Duke shorts onscreen or a revealing dress on the red carpet. It's Venus, the planet of love and beauty, that unlocks the secret of her chart. Jessica was born with this approval-seeking planet in adaptable Gemini. Its position in the sign of the Twins makes it easy for the singer to play a variety of parts, from the virtuous virgin to the voluptuous vamp. Jessica's Venus was opposite Neptune, the planet of fantasy, which often reflects a willingness to be whatever others want us to be in order to fulfill their dreams. While this is excellent for a performer, it can create confusion in one's personal life, especially when it comes to relationships. Adapting to others' desires makes it harder for Jessica to see and be herself. In fact, serious and restrictive Saturn is in a tense right-angle square to her Venus, an indication of self-doubt with respect to her attractiveness and self-worth. A need to prove herself to others contributes to a willingness to change in order to please them, even if it doesn't please her.

The pressure Jessica feels makes her a hard worker. With active Mars and responsible Saturn both in demanding Virgo, she's going to continue to grow as a performer as a result of the high standards she sets for herself. She's not going to be content with the minimum, but will hone her talents throughout her career. A commitment to her craft can lead to some surprising changes in her work in the years ahead. Another surprise is how bright Jessica is. Mercury, the planet of intellect, is in a harmonious 120-degree trine with inventive Uranus. This shows that she has intuition and instincts that provide her with insights and answers, even if she doesn't know what buffalo wings are. The ditzy side of Jessica is not a true reflection of who she is, but it goes along with the time-honored Hollywood tradition of the sexy, dumb blonde. Jessica is much more than a pretty face. She may not qualify for Mensa, in spite of her mother's claim that Jessica has a genius-level 160 IQ. But she's definitely smarter than the public thinks, and smart enough not to change that perception as long as it's boosting her career.

About the Author
Jeff Jawer is the co-author of Barnes & Noble's 'Your Astrology Guide 2006.' A professional astrologer since 1973, his articles have appeared in astrology journals and magazines and Web sites around the world. He holds a B.A. in The History and Science of Astrology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and teaches and lectures both in the United States and abroad.