Jessica Simpson opens up to PEOPLE about life as a single mom following her split from husband Eric Johnson.
The 45-year-old singer and entrepreneur admits she never expected to find herself in this position. Simpson filed for divorce in November after nearly 11 years of marriage.
“I absolutely never thought I’d be a single mom at 45,” Simpson tells PEOPLE exclusively.
The couple shares three children: Maxwell Drew, 12, Ace Knute, 11, and Birdie Mae, 5. Simpson has been candid about the challenges of co-parenting while maintaining stability for their kids.
“It’s not how I planned it,” she says simply.
Simpson describes the transition as part of her journey, even when it wasn’t what she envisioned. The fashion mogul has built a billion-dollar empire with her Jessica Simpson Collection while balancing motherhood and her career.
“It’s just a part of what destiny holds for me,” Simpson reflects.
Finding Strength in Unexpected Places
The mother of three emphasizes that she’s focused on creating the best environment possible for her children during this time of change.
Simpson and Johnson were married in July 2014. Their relationship began in 2010, shortly after Simpson’s divorce from Nick Lachey was finalized.
“I’m taking it one day at a time and focusing on what matters most – my kids and my family.”
Throughout her career, Simpson has been open about personal struggles and growth. From her early days as a pop star to building her fashion business, she’s consistently shown resilience during difficult periods.
The Jessica Simpson Collection continues to thrive, generating hundreds of millions in annual revenue. Simpson credits much of her business success to lessons learned through personal challenges.
Her children remain her top priority as she navigates this new chapter. Simpson has spoken previously about the importance of maintaining routines and stability, especially during transitions.
Moving Forward
Simpson’s approach to single motherhood reflects her practical nature. She’s built support systems and continues working while ensuring her children feel secure.
The singer hasn’t ruled out future relationships but remains focused on her current responsibilities. Her emphasis stays on family first, business second, everything else after that.
Simpson’s honesty about not expecting this path resonates with many parents facing similar situations. Life rarely follows the script we write, but she’s determined to make the best of her circumstances.
She continues balancing her various roles – mother, businesswoman, and public figure – while adjusting to life after divorce.
Simpson’s story demonstrates that even when life takes unexpected turns, it’s possible to find meaning and purpose in the new direction.
