Inside Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson's Remarkable Journey: From Love at First Sight to Building a Beautiful Family
Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson's relationship: A captivating journey from a whirlwind engagement to a beautiful marriage with three kids Explore the highs and lows, milestones, and unforgettable moments that define their roller-coaster romance
Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson are still deeply in love, more than a decade after their initial meeting in 2010. Simpson reminisced about their first encounter in a touching Instagram post from May 2020, where she revealed that it was love at first sight. She described how Johnson knocked on her enchanting cottage door and she welcomed him in, never wanting him to leave. Simpson affectionately admitted that she instantly fell head over heels in love on that remarkable day.
The ex-athlete proposed to the singer of "Heartbeat" in November 2010, after dating for six months. However, they didn't get married until 2014.
Reflecting on her proposal in November 2017, Simpson shared on Instagram, "Seven years ago, I got engaged while listening to 'Since I've Been Loving You' by Led Zeppelin at exactly 11:11 AM. Still loving this man is the simplest part of my life. #HowtheWestWasWon."
Simpson expressed her belief that she and her new husband are deeply attached to each other during a Today show interview in September 2014. She described their love as reaching an elevated level.
Five years later, the couple welcomed their daughter Birdie in March 2019, further expanding their family. According to an exclusive source, parenthood has been a completely unique experience for the couple after having their third child. The older siblings are both curious and enjoy being involved.
Despite the challenges faced in their marriage and family life, the couple has remained steadfast.
Simpson's release of her autobiography, Open Book, in February 2020 further solidified her bond with Johnson as she candidly shared her experiences with alcoholism and childhood abuse.
"In regards to my union with Eric, I have never experienced a stronger sense of authenticity and liberation," shared the actress from "The Dukes of Hazard" exclusively with Us while endorsing the best-selling book. "Eric and I share a profound connection that encompasses our minds, bodies, and souls."
She went on to express, "Eric genuinely cherishes my imperfections, which represents a significant part of who I am. I wholeheartedly embrace this lifelong commitment and partnership with Eric, exercising my freedom of choice."
Scroll down to relive Simpson and Johnson’s love story from the beginning.
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Jessica Simpson, Eric Johnson’s Relationship Timeline: From a Whirlwind Engagement to Being Married With Kids
Jessica Simpson and former NFL player Eric Johnson are still deeply in love, even after more than a decade since they first met in 2010. Simpson shared a heartfelt Instagram post in May 2020, reminiscing about their chance encounter in May 2010. According to her, it was love at first sight when Johnson knocked on her cottage door. She welcomed him in and never wanted him to leave, confessing that she fell head over slippers in love with him that very day.
The ex-sportsman proposed to the singer of "Heartbeat" in November 2010, following six months of dating. However, it took four years for them to finally get married.
"Seven years ago, on 11/11 at 11:11 AM, I got engaged while the song 'Since I've Been Loving You' by Led Zeppelin played in the background," Simpson reminisced on Instagram in November 2017. "Loving this man is still the simplest part of my life. #HowtheWestWasWon."
Having previously been married to Nick Lachey and Keri D'Angelo, the couple welcomed their daughter Maxwell and son Ace before finally tying the knot on July 5, 2014, in Montecito, California. After a whirlwind romance and the addition of their two children, they effortlessly adjusted to their new lives together as a family of four.
Simpson expressed her belief that she and her new husband shared a deep addiction to each other during an interview on the Today show in September 2014. She also emphasized the extraordinary level of love they had reached.
In March 2019, the couple further extended their family with the arrival of their daughter, Birdie. According to an exclusive source, parenthood has presented a completely new and distinct experience for the couple after their third child. The older siblings have shown great curiosity and a desire to actively participate in their new family dynamic.
Despite the challenges faced in their marriage and family life, the couple has remained steadfastly united. Simpson's release of her autobiography, "Open Book," in February 2020, which candidly addressed her experiences with alcoholism and childhood abuse, further strengthened her bond with Johnson.
"I have never felt more like my true self or experienced such freedom than in my marriage with Eric," the Dukes of Hazard actress revealed exclusively to Us while discussing her best-selling book. "Eric and I share a deep connection on a mental, physical, and spiritual level."
She carried on, expressing, "One of the aspects Eric cherishes the most about me are my imperfections. I am wholeheartedly committed to this marriage and the life we share, completely of my own volition with Eric by my side!"
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July 2010
Exclusive images were shared by us, featuring Simpson and Johnson as they made an appearance in Jacksonville, Florida, to commemorate the 60th wedding anniversary of Johnson's grandparents. This outing took place after the two had already been dating for five months, even though Johnson was still legally married to stylist Keri D'Angelo.
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July 2010
During Simpson's 30th birthday weekend celebration in July 2010, the couple passionately kissed while on a yacht on the beautiful Italian island of Capri. An insider told Us at the time that the singer, who had ended her three-year marriage with husband Nick Lachey in December 2005, was "really happy."
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July 2010
Johnson withdrew from his two-year business program at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in order to remain in close proximity to Simpson in Los Angeles. A source informed Us that he is unwilling to relocate to Philadelphia and depart from her so swiftly after their recent union.
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November 2010
Simpson’s rep confirmed to Us that Johnson popped the question after six months of dating.
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March 2011
“We have both experienced previous marriages, but we are currently relishing our strong bond,” Simpson revealed to Women’s Wear Daily in March 2011. She further mentioned the possibility of eloping, emphasizing the importance of taking things slowly and savoring the journey.
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September 2011:
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October 2011
After months of rumors, the designer finally announced her pregnancy by sharing a Halloween-themed photo on Twitter on October 31. The picture showed her dressed up as a mummy, with the caption, "It's official—I'm going to be a mummy!"
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March 2012
Simpson was the main guest at a baby shower in L.A. in March 2012, inspired by the theme of Charlotte's Web. According to a source, the event was designed with children in mind, and many of her friends attended with their little ones.
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April 2012
Simpson, who is pregnant, posed nude for the cover of Elle magazine in April. During the interview, she also shared that she and her partner are expecting a baby girl. "We have already started incorporating the name into our belongings. It's not a shocking or unfamiliar name; once people hear it, they will understand the significance behind it," she explained.
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May 2012
The arrival of their daughter, Maxwell Drew, weighing 9 lbs. 13 oz. and measuring 21 3/4 inches, on May 1, brought immense joy to the couple. Expressing their overwhelming gratitude, the first-time mom conveyed her appreciation for the love, support, and prayers they have received. This incredible journey has undoubtedly been the most extraordinary experience of their lives.
Credit: Courtesy of Weight Watchers
May 2012
Just weeks after becoming a mother, the Employee of the Month actress announced on social media that she was joining the Weight Watchers family as a spokesperson. She expressed her appreciation for the program's focus on long-term healthy habits, while noting that she can still indulge in her guilty pleasures from time to time. In fact, she has even formed a group of friends who will be embarking on this wellness journey with her.
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October 2012
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November 2012
Six months after the arrival of Maxwell, Us magazine revealed that the couple was anticipating their second child. "It wasn't something they had planned, but Jessica is pregnant once again," a source disclosed. "She is genuinely thrilled!"
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March 2013
During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the singer of "I Wanna Love You Forever" unintentionally disclosed the gender of her second child. In a March 2013 show, she humorously remarked, "It's funny how a wiener can unexpectedly cause me to feel nauseated. I suppose I've just revealed to the world that I'm expecting a boy!"
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June 2013
Ace Knute Johnson, pronounced Ka-nute, was joyfully welcomed into the world on June 30th in Los Angeles. A scheduled C-section brought him safely into the loving arms of his parents, Jessica and Eric. Their rep shared the wonderful news stating, "Mom and baby are both doing wonderfully. Jessica, Eric, and their eldest, Maxwell, couldn't be more thrilled to have this new addition join their loving family."
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August 2013
The baby boy of the Texas native was exclusively revealed on the cover of We magazine one month later. In the feature, she proudly spoke about being a mother of two, stating, "Every day is a new adventure with two kids. Pregnancy was quite challenging with them being so close in age. However, I feel a great sense of accomplishment and believe my family is complete. Of course, accidents can always occur!"
Credit: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Jessica Simpson Collection
November 2013
The family of four made their red-carpet debut together while attending a Dillard’s event for Simpson’s clothing line in Dallas in November 2013.
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January 2014
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March 2014
“First time rocking a white dress this year…but not the last!!Thanks @weightwatchers!” Simpson wrote via Instagram on March 6, showing off her weight loss.
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March 2014
Relocating to the United States! According to a source in March 2014, the couple opted for a more low-key approach for their wedding, choosing to stay in the U.S. rather than having the previously discussed Italian destination ceremony.
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May 2014
Simpson and Johnson attended the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington D.C. in May 2014.
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May 2014
The couple's upcoming wedding during the Independence Day weekend in 2014 was revealed by Us, with the twist that the bride wouldn't be donning the traditional white attire. A source disclosed to Us that Jessica would be having a one-of-a-kind dress created for the occasion, distinct from the Vera Wang gown she wore when marrying Nick Lachey back in 2002.
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May 2014
"Happy 4-year anniversary, my love! I am truly grateful to be the mother of our beautiful children and cherished by you every single day," Simpson expressed her heartfelt emotions on May 21, commemorating the day they first crossed paths. "I am eagerly counting down the days until our wedding day!!"
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June 2014
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July 2014
The pair tied the knot on July 5, 2014, in front of close family and friends and their two children in Montecito, California.
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July 2014
“I love this man, our marriage, and everything in between,” Simpson captioned a sun-drenched photo of the happy couple weeks after they said “I do.”
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September 2014
"I believe our connection to one another is somewhat addictive," the artist revealed to Today's Matt Lauer in September 2014, following their marriage to Johnson earlier that year. "I truly believe we have achieved an unparalleled level of love."
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May 2017
“After 7 years of love, we are blessed with 2 beautiful children,” Simpson wrote alongside a captivating black-and-white snapshot of herself, Johnson, and their adoring kids Maxwell and Ace. This photo was shared in May 2017, marking the special milestone of seven years since Simpson and the athlete started dating.
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September 2018
Simpson revealed on Instagram in September 2018 that she and Johnson were expecting their third child. "SURPRISE..." she exclaimed, "This adorable little baby girl will complete our family of five. We are overjoyed to share this wonderful gift of life."
Credit: Courtesy Jessica Simpson/Instagram
October 2018
Credit: Courtesy Jessica Simpson/Instagram
January 2019
The famous singer known as the "Sweetest Sin" celebrated her third pregnancy in January 2019 by hosting a stylish baby shower with a birds-nest theme, paying homage to their chosen name for the baby - Birdie. According to a source, the event was not filled with traditional shower games, as it was the third time around, but rather a lovely and sophisticated lunch gathering.
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March 2019
Us confirmed that the couple welcomed their third child, daughter Birdie, on March 19. She weighed 10 pounds, 13 ounces.
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September 2019
"Wishing a joyful 40th birthday to the man who has captured my heart," the shoe designer expressed affectionately as she shared a heartfelt snapshot of herself and her husband on his special day in September 2019. "In every lifetime, my sincerest hope is to discover you once more and relish in the beauty of our love. You are my hero, my champion, my dearest friend, my beloved and the wonderful father of our children. I couldn't have asked for more. I love you wholeheartedly. Let's rejoice and make memories."
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October 2019
Six months after the birth of her third child, the former star of Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica successfully shed 100 pounds. In a September 2019 Instagram post, Simpson wrote, "Even when it seemed impossible, I made the choice to put in even more effort."
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February 2020
"In regard to my relationship with Eric, I have never experienced a deeper sense of authenticity and liberation," Simpson shared exclusively with Us in February 2020, following the publication of her memoir, Open Book. "Eric and I share an unshakeable bond that encompasses our thoughts, physical connection, and spiritual alignment."
Credit: Courtesy Jessica Simpson/Instagram
April 2020
Credit: Courtesy Jessica Simpson/Instagram
May 2020
Going strong! "I fell head over slippers in love with this amazing man a decade ago today!" the Blonde Ambition actress exclaimed in her caption alongside a sun-kissed selfie with her beloved, commemorating their first date anniversary. "By a stroke of luck, he came knocking on my whimsical cottage door (sigh), and once I let him in, I never wanted to let him go. He is mine, and I am his...forever."
Credit: Courtesy Jessica Simpson/Instagram
July 2020
"Dear Eric Johnson, my beloved husband, I wanted to take this opportunity to express my profound love for you," shared the Open Book author on her Instagram account, commemorating their wedding anniversary in July 2020. "Six years ago today, we embarked on a journey of a lifetime, sealing our union as soulmates destined by a celestial force. Like stars colliding in the sky, our unity was beautifully orchestrated by the divine. Together, we breathe life into our dreams, nurture our deepest desires, and create a safe haven for one another. Our love is eternal, unbreakable, and bound by an unbreakable bond. Forevermore, you are the one who completes me."
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May 2021
"11 years STRONG... 11 hearts brimming with unwavering, passionate, inspired, captivating, supportive, beautiful, alluring, enchanting, exquisite, transcendent, magnificent, sincere, joyful, cherished, ideal, incomparable, powerful, captivating, LOVE. Our intertwined hearts are celebrated and honored on this fortuitous day. From the moment we first met, I sensed that our destinies were entwined, as you held the key to my restless heart and effortlessly embraced my soul with love and reverence," the singer wrote alongside a selfie of the couple on their anniversary. "Then, now, and for all eternity, I belong to you completely and unconditionally, just as you belong to me. The privilege of residing within your heart is the greatest gift I could ever hope for, one that will endure until the end of time. As our children, the beautiful beings that you have blessed me with, grow older, time becomes inconsequential in our presence, as it merely allows our love to expand and overflow beyond all limits. Happy Anniversary to us, a testament to the magnificence of our connection, both now and forevermore."
Credit: Courtesy of Eric Johnson/Instagram
May 2021
Eleven years ago tonight, our paths crossed and I had the privilege of meeting you. From the moment we connected, I knew you were unlike anyone else, radiating a profound depth and love. Thank you for blessing us with three incredible children and for gracing my life with the best 11 years I could have ever imagined.
Every day, our children and I are inspired by the way you selflessly give and wholeheartedly love everyone around you. Your kindness and thoughtfulness are a true testament to the beautiful soul that you are.
Furthermore, watching your boundless creativity is truly remarkable. Your talent and passion continue to leave me in awe. The remarkable traits that define you are already being passed down to our beloved Maxwell, Ace, and Birdie in the most wonderful way possible.
I am eternally grateful for you and cherish our relationship, which has evolved, grown, and blossomed into something extraordinary. Laughter and fun fill our days, and I am constantly reminded of how fortunate I am to have you by my side.
In conclusion, I consider myself the luckiest man alive to call you mine.
Credit: Courtesy Eric Johnson/Instagram
July 2021
Eric expressed his affection for Jessica on their seventh wedding anniversary, sharing his love and appreciation for her. He mentioned how Jessica continues to bring joy and laughter into their marriage, even after seven years. Alongside some previously unseen wedding photos, Eric mentioned how their children are fortunate to have a strong, one-of-a-kind, and beautiful mother like Jessica. Concluding his message, he expressed his love and happiness, wishing her a happy anniversary.
Credit: Courtesy of Jessica Simpson/Instagram
The musician expressed, "I am grateful to have the privilege of residing within your soul and having you reside within mine until the end of time. I am overjoyed that it is your birthday... the day when the world was blessed with the gift of you, which is the most important day of the year for many, but particularly for your fortunate wife and our wonderfully perfect children. I adore you. Maxwell adores you. Ace adores you. Birdie adores you."
Credit: Courtesy Jessica Simpson/Instagram
August 2022
The shoe designer had a delightful vacation in Mexico with her beloved partner, where they enjoyed a romantic and rejuvenating time together. She shared a photo on Instagram, posing by the beach in a stylish black one-piece swimsuit from Jessica Simpson's brand, paired with elegant black heels. Alongside the picture, she expressed her fondness for the trip and mentioned bringing back a renewed sense of passion for everything and everyone. Bid farewell to Cabo San Lucas with a heartfelt "Adios ️."
