Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson Divorce After 15 Years: Inside Their Love Story and Painful Split
Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson have officially announced their separation after 15 years together. The singer, 44, and the former NFL player, 45, confirmed the news on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. In her statement, Simpson shared, “Eric and I have been living separately, navigating a painful situation in our marriage. Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them. We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way and appreciate privacy right now as we work through this as a family.”
The couple, who share three children—Maxwell Drew, Ace Knute, and Birdie Mae—had been facing speculation about their marriage for over a year. Fans first noticed something was amiss when Simpson was seen without her wedding ring while working on music in Nashville in November 2023. Sources close to the couple revealed that they had been living “separate lives” for some time, with Simpson spending significant time in Nashville and Johnson staying in Los Angeles.
A Romance That Once Inspired Many
Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson’s love story began in 2010 at a party through a mutual friend. Simpson described their connection as instant, sharing in her memoir Open Book that they “connected on all levels.” Just months into their relationship, Johnson proposed, and their whirlwind romance became a media sensation.
In 2014, after postponing their wedding twice due to Simpson’s pregnancies, the couple tied the knot in a romantic ceremony at San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, California. Their family-centered wedding included their children, marking the beginning of what seemed like a fairytale union.
The years that followed were filled with milestones, from welcoming their three children to Simpson’s public battle with alcohol addiction, which she overcame with Johnson’s unwavering support. In her 2020 memoir, Simpson credited her husband for giving up drinking alongside her, calling him “selfless” and “the most incredible father.”
Signs of Trouble
The cracks in their relationship became more apparent in recent years. In August 2023, Simpson spoke fondly of Johnson in interviews, calling him her soulmate and sharing intimate details about how they kept their romance alive despite busy schedules and parenting challenges. However, just months later, fans noticed Johnson had stopped appearing on Simpson’s social media, and both were seen without their wedding rings.
By November 2024, sources revealed that the couple was living apart. Simpson focused on her music career, splitting her time between Los Angeles and Nashville, while Johnson stayed in L.A. to be closer to their children’s school. Friends close to the couple hinted at the growing distance, describing their dynamic as one of “separate lives.”
A Painful Decision
The decision to separate was not taken lightly. Simpson and Johnson had been through significant highs and lows together, from building their family to supporting each other through personal challenges. Despite their differences, they always emphasized their commitment to their children.
Days before going public with the separation, Simpson listed their Hidden Hills, California, family home for sale at $17.9 million. The timing coincided with the devastating wildfires in the area, adding another layer of difficulty to the already challenging period.
Looking Ahead
As Simpson and Johnson navigate this new chapter, their priority remains their children. Simpson’s statement reflects their shared focus on creating a stable environment for Maxwell, Ace, and Birdie. While their marriage may have ended, their co-parenting relationship is expected to remain strong.
For fans who followed their journey, the split marks the end of a 15-year romance that captured hearts worldwide. Simpson’s vulnerability and openness about her struggles, both personal and professional, have resonated deeply with her audience, making this announcement all the more poignant.
As they move forward, both Simpson and Johnson are likely to find their paths, shaped by the experiences and memories of their time together. The story of their love—and its end—serves as a reminder of the complexities of relationships and the strength it takes to prioritize family above all else.
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