Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson are starting the new year separately. After months of speculations that the couple’s marriage is on the rocks, the entertainer finally confirms there is indeed trouble in paradise. Simpson and Johnson have been seen without their wedding rings on multiple occasions in recent times.
“Eric and I have been living separately, navigating a painful situation in our marriage,” a statement Simpson shared to People Magazine read. “Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them.” She concluded her message by appreciating supportive fans and seeking privacy amid the difficult time.
“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.”
Although Simpson didn’t shed more light on her marital woes, fans picked up on the drama in April 2024. Eagle-eyed followers noticed she stopped posting the NFL player on social media. During Johnson’s 45th birthday in September, the Dukes of Hazzard star failed to give a shout-out. However, it wasn’t only the lack of social media PDA that fueled the rumors. In several of her posts, Simpson was noticeably without her wedding ring.
As reported by The Nerd Stash, during a November airport run at LAX, Simpson stepped out without her wedding ring while joined by a female pal.
Jessica Simpson Once Admitted To ‘Putting Up With Everything I Did Not Deserve’
Although Jessica Simpson didn’t elaborate on the “painful situation” plaguing her marriage, she once hinted at being the aggrieved party. While announcing her music comeback in November, the Irresistible singer shared a photo of her ringless with the cryptic 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.”
At the time, close sources alleged the former tight-end was responsible for the breakdown of the marriage due to his partying ways. “Eric has often left Jessica alone at night to go out partying at bars. He didn’t ever seem to care if anyone recognized him or not,” the insider told The Sun. “She is sober now, so that’s not her scene at all. It’s no secret in Hollywood that they have been drifting apart for a long time. “
Despite the bombshell reports, Simpson and Johnson seemed united and gave fans hope with a joint appearance later that month. The now-estranged couple attended their daughter Birdie’s graduation with the rest of the family. The pair even engaged in light PDA, sending assurance that things were good.
Unfortunately, it turns out things aren’t. After four years of dating, Simpson and Johnson tied the knot in July 2014. Their whirlwind love began in 2010 after meeting via a mutual friend, and they got engaged after only six months of dating. They are parents to daughters Maxwell Drew, 12, and Birdie Mae, 5, and son Ace Knute, 11.
