Jessica Simpson Confirms Split From Husband Eric Johnson

After fans speculated that Jessica Simpson‘s marriage to former football player Eric Johnson was on the rocks, the singer officially confirmed that the couple has split.

Simpson, 44, announced the news on Tuesday, Jan. 14, confirming in a statement first shared with Entertainment Tonight that “Eric and I have been living separately” while “navigating a painful situation in our marriage.”

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The “Irresistible” singer married the retired tight end in a July 2014 ceremony in Montecito, Calif., and share three children: daughters Maxwell, 12, and Birdie, 5, and son Ace, 11. (Simpson was previously married to Nick Lachey, though the couple divorced after four years in 2006. Johnson was also previously married to Keri D’Angelo, calling it quits after five years in 2010).

“Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them,” Simpson added. “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.”

Rumors that there was trouble brewing between the couple started became rampant this past fall after fans noticed she hadn’t been photographed with Johnson, 45, in some time. A social media post made by Simpson in November 2024 further fueled speculation of a breakup, as it included what many fans believe to be a cryptic message hinting at a major change in her life.

In the Instagram upload, she shared photos from what she called her “Nashville music room” of herself posing in a glam outfit that included a black fuzzy coat and shiny over-the-knee black boots, writing in the caption, “Interviews in my Nashville music room where I unearthed my singular magic. This comeback is personal, it’s an apology to myself for putting up with everything I did not deserve 🎶 🎼 🤍🖤.”

While the message made a direct reference to her music as she gears up for a return to the industry, some fans felt like the second sentence hinted at a more personal transformation. 

Shortly after fans began questioning her relationship status, Simpson’s younger sister Ashlee addressed the situation, answering a question from TMZ about whether or not it was “true” that Simpson was divorcing Johnson by simply saying, “No.” Her attempt to afford her sister some confidentiality failed as rumors continued to swirl, but hopefully, now that Simpson has spoken out, fans will respect her wishes for privacy.

Relationship woes aside, it’s been a tough week for the family. On Thursday, Jan. 9, Simpson revealed that she and her family evacuated their Los Angeles-area home as the surrounding area became overtaken by smoke from the nearby wildfires. 

Next: Jessica Simpson Boldly Shuts Down Critic Who Made Assumption About Her Drinking Again