Jessica and Eric made the “painful” decision to go their separate ways. (Image: (Image: Getty))
Jessica Simpson has announced she is taking a break from her decade-long marriage to Eric Johnson, the former NFL star.
At 44 years old, the singer and actress has found herself amidst rumours and speculation about their relationship status.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Jessica opened up about her and Eric’s challenges, revealing, “Eric and I have been living separately while navigating a painful situation in our marriage.”
The couple, who share children, emphasised the importance of family during this difficult time. Jessica stated, “Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them,” highlighting her commitment to ensuring their well-being amid the turmoil.
While they have been receiving a tremendous outpouring of support from fans and friends, both Jessica and Eric have expressed a desire for privacy as they work through this transitional phase.
“We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way, and we sincerely appreciate privacy right now as we navigate this as a family,” she added.
The couple are parents to three children. (Image: (Image: Getty))
Married since July 2014, the couple has shared the joyful responsibility of raising three children: their eldest, Maxwell Drew, who is now 12, Ace Knute, who is 11, and Birdie Mae, who is 5.
There has been a swirl of speculation about their relationship, particularly after Johnson was seen without his wedding band last November.
This sighting coincided with Simpson dropping hints on her about a potential revival of her music career, sparking further curiosity among fans about their marriage status.
Her post reflected a personal reawakening: “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.”
The star has been looking better than ever. (Image: (Image: Getty))
In the wake of recent developments, speculation arose regarding the couple’s tendency to lead largely separate lives. Jessica and Eric first met in 2010 when a mutual friend introduced them.
Their immediate connection led to a whirlwind romance that culminated in a quick engagement. The couple exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony held in Montecito, California, attended by over 250 guests, including their young children, who played cherished roles in the celebration.
Before her relationship with Eric Johnson, Jessica Simpson was married to Nick Lachey. Their marriage lasted from 2002 to 2005, marked by public scrutiny and significant personal challenges.
Fans were surprised that the Take My Breath Away singer released the statement independently, given most couples prefer to issue joint statements.
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Many scrutinised Jessica’s statement, finding the phrase “painful situation” particularly concerning. One fan on labelled it “ominous”.
Another fan of Simpson — who once referred to the retired athlete as her “sexual shaman” — wrote: “I don’t like the way that sounds! I hope she’s okay”.
One fan theorised that the separate statements were because Simpson is a celebrity and Johnson is a retired athlete.
‘I think if he issued a statement or joined in on hers, it would seem odd. I honestly had no idea who this man was before he started dating and married Jessica Simpson.