After a decade of marriage, Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson have announced their decision to separate. The singer, actress, and fashion mogul, 44, and the former NFL player, 45, share three children—Maxwell, 12, Ace, 11, and Birdie, 5. Despite their personal differences, the couple remains united in their commitment to co-parenting and providing a loving environment for their children.
“Eric and I have been living separately navigating a painful situation in our marriage,” Simpson said in a statement to People magazine.
“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.”
Simpson and Johnson met through a mutual friend in May 2010 and were engaged six months later in November. The couple welcomed their first two children, Maxwell and Ace, before marrying in 2014. Simpson and Johnson welcomed their third child, Birdie, in 2019.
Over the years, the couple frequently shared glimpses of their family life on social media, appearing deeply devoted to each other and their children. However, like any relationship, they faced their share of challenges behind the scenes.
The couple announced their separation publicly, describing it as a deeply painful but necessary decision. In a heartfelt statement, Simpson emphasized their shared priority: the well-being of their children. “Eric and I are committed to working together as parents to ensure that Maxwell, Ace, and Birdie feel loved and supported during this transition,” she shared.
While the split marks the end of their romantic relationship, their partnership as parents remains steadfast. According to sources close to the family, both Simpson and Johnson are actively working to establish a routine that keeps their children’s lives as stable as possible.
Speculation about trouble in paradise began circulating in late 2024, with noticeable changes in the couple’s public appearances. Johnson was seen without his wedding ring, while Simpson’s social media hinted at personal growth and new beginnings. In a recent post, she wrote about reclaiming her identity and focusing on a career resurgence. “This comeback is personal—an apology to myself for accepting less than I deserve,” she shared, fueling discussions about the challenges she may have faced in her marriage.
As Jessica Simpson turns the page to a new chapter, she appears determined to channel her energy into her career and personal growth. She recently listed her family’s sprawling Hidden Hills mansion for $17.9 million, signaling a fresh start for herself and her children. The 13,000-square-foot estate, purchased in 2013, has been a backdrop to many cherished family memories, but it now represents an opportunity for reinvention.
Simpson has also reignited her passion for music, promising fans a deeply personal new album.