Jessica Simpson has chosen to end her marriage to Eric Johnson after ten years, emphasizing that the difficulties in their relationship might threaten her sobriety. The 44-year-old singer and reality TV star has worked hard to try to mend their relationship, exploring options like couples counseling, spirituality, and even tantric practices. Unfortunately, these efforts have not led to the results she hoped for.
A close confidant shared that Simpson feels she has evolved during their time together while Johnson has not. According to the insider, “Jessica has grown, and Eric has not. For her, staying for the kids was not enough.” With her seven years of sobriety, Simpson has recognized the significant role that her mental health plays in her life, particularly amid the challenges in her marriage.
Concerns from friends about the potential impact of their conflicts on her sobriety led Simpson to make the challenging choice to leave. The insider mentioned, “She needed to walk away from this. She is fragile, but she is not broken.”
Jessica has been candid about her sobriety journey, which began in 2017 when she acknowledged the adverse effects of alcohol on her life and her children. During a 2020 interview, she reflected, “I was spiraling with alcohol, missing precious moments with my children, who were confused by my behavior.” Throughout this difficult period, she has prioritized her sobriety and the well-being of her kids.
Jessica puts sobriety before troubled marriage
The couple, married since 2014, has three children: Maxwell, 11; Ace, 11; and Birdie Mae, five. Despite attempts to rehabilitate their relationship, it appears Simpson grew increasingly frustrated as Johnson became more “absent” over time. An insider stated, “She tried hard to keep the spark alive, but it vanished.”
In a recent statement, Simpson shared news of their separation, saying, “Eric and I have been living apart while dealing with a painful situation in our marriage. Our children are our priority, and we are focusing on their best interests.”
This announcement came shortly after she placed their Hidden Hills home on the market for $17.9 million, reducing the original price significantly. Speculation about their marital issues had been mounting for some time, and Simpson’s decision highlights her commitment to her health and family.