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Ashlee Simpson Shares Update on Sister Jessica Simpson Amid Eric Johnson Separation: ‘So Proud’
Ashlee Simpson Ross is cheering on her big sister, Jessica Simpson, amid her separation from estranged husband Eric Johnson.
The “Pieces of Me” singer, 40, said that Jessica, 44, was in the “best, best spirits” during an interview with Us Weekly published on Thursday, February 6.
“I just did an interview with her today. She has music coming, and it was so exciting. And I’m so proud of her,” Ashlee continued. “We are strong little ladies, and, you know, I think that’s a cool thing about life is just always growing and finding yourself, wherever that’s supposed to be.”
Ashlee’s words of encouragement came a little less than a month after the “I Wanna Love You Forever” singer confirmed that she and Eric, 46, were separating.
“Eric and I have been living separately, navigating a painful situation in our marriage,” Jessica told People in a statement published on January 13. “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.”
Rumors of trouble in the Dukes of Hazzard star’s marriage began when she failed to acknowledge Eric’s birthday in September of last year on social media. Instead, she shared a clip of a preacher talking about forgiveness.
“Forgiveness doesn’t change the person who hurt you. Are you listening to me?” the preacher said. “Forgiveness doesn’t change that person. Forgiveness changes you. Guess what forgiveness does not do? Forgiveness does not mean you forget. One of the most crazy theories is that you forgive and forget. You don’t forget, but you do have the opportunity to forgive every time you remember.”
Jessica was later spotted without her wedding ring, and she continued to fuel the speculation when she posted a cryptic message via Instagram about her return to music on November 11, 2024.
“Interviews in my Nashville music room where I unearthed my singular magic,” Jessica wrote alongside a photo of herself in a white dress and black over-the-knee boots. “This comeback is personal, it’s an apology to myself for putting up with everything I did not deserve.”
The following day, a source exclusively revealed to Life & Style that Jessica and the former NFL player’s marriage was essentially over.
“Jessica has been reevaluating her happiness, her marriage and her business empire, and she is ready to start fresh,” the insider explained on November 12, 2024. “It’s pretty much over between her and Eric; it’s only a matter of time before she files for divorce.”
Almost two weeks later, a separate source told Life & Style that Jessica had turned to Ashlee for advice about what to do regarding her crumbling relationship.
“Jessica’s needing advice and support, and Ashlee’s being there for her, picking up the phone when Jessica calls, taking Jessica shopping, and volunteering to look after the kids,” the insider said at the time. “Ashlee has that street-smart edge, and she knows a few things. Ashlee is listening but she’s also reminding Jessica of Eric’s good qualities and giving Jessica a lot of food for thought.”
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