Jessica Simpson Details Family Thanksgiving With Ex Eric Johnson

Jessica Simpson shared why it was important to her that her estranged husband Eric Johnson, with whom she shares three kids, was present for her family’s Thanksgiving festivities.

By Jaylen Spidell, Will Reid Nov 29, 2025 9:02 PMTags
Watch: Jessica Simpson Details Family Thanksgiving With Ex Eric Johnson

Jessica Simpson’s ex Eric Johnson is welcome to come on over for the holidays.

Nearly one year after the former couple announced their separation, the “Irresistible” singer revealed her estranged husband was among those in attendance for her family’s Thanksgiving celebrations at her mom Tina Ann Drew’s house.

“It’s my kids’ father,” Jessica said in an interview published by TMZ Nov. 28. “Family first.”

The 45-year-old—who is mom to Maxwell, 13, Ace, 12, and Birdie, 6, with the former NFL star—also shared her advice for other parents navigating a breakup during the holiday season.

“No matter what, your kid is half the other person,” she offered. “Always have respect in what you say around [your kids] so they can always have a good perspective on it.”

Jessica added, “Unconditional love is important.”

The Dukes of Hazzard actress has certainly made a point to practice what she preaches. After all, she and Eric previously reunited to watch her sister Ashlee Simpson’s I Am Me residency in Las Vegas in August, explaining that their joint outing was a no-brainer.

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“We are all a big, happy family, so it's important for all of us,” Jessica told E! News in September. “We wouldn't have missed Ashlee, are you kidding me? It was such a moment.”

But even as the Newlyweds alum—who was previously married to Nick Lachey from 2002 to 2006—maintains an amicable relationship with Eric, she’s also embracing the single life by re-entering the dating pool.

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“I think I’m into younger men at the moment,” she revealed to Extra in October. “When you’re newly separated… I feel like younger guys kinda like the confidence of an older woman, I’m discovering.”

And outside of romance, Jessica is also revitalizing her professional life with a return to music and an acting role in the Hulu series All’s Fair.

“I feel like at 45, I'm born again,” she told E! News' Erin Lim Rhodes at the show's premiere last month. “It's like, a resurrection of everything entertainment for me and it's so nice.”

Jessica isn’t the only celeb who shared her Thanksgiving plans. To see how more stars spent their Turkey Day this year, keep reading.

Celine Dion 

The "My Heart Will Go On" singer shared a message of gratitude to honor the holiday. 

"Wishing everyone a beautiful and peaceful Thanksgiving!" Celine wrote in an Instagram post. "May your day be filled with love, gratitude, and precious moments with the people who mean the most to you.

Brittany Mahomes & Patrick Mahomes

Ahead of watching the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback play, the Kansas City Current co-owner wished her Instagram followers a happy thankgiving and shared an adorable family photoshoot. 

Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco

The Only Murders in the Building star and music producer cozied up together for their first Thanksgiving together as a married couple.

Kelsea Ballerini 

The country singer shared a video of herself singing, telling her fans in an Instagram Story post, "Checking in on you, happy Thanksgiving."

Chris Meloni & Mariska Hargitay 

These are their bear cups. The Law & Order stars showed off their coveted Starbucks souvenirs at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. 

Mandy Moore

The This Is Us star expressed gratitude for her and husband Taylor Goldsmith's little family in a vulnerable post. 

"It's been a pretty wild and difficult year but the top line is overwhelming gratitude," Mandy wrote in an Instagram post. "Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. The most grateful for these 4."

Sydney Sweeney

Lake life. The Euphoria actress showed off how she's spending her holiday while wishing her followers on Instagram, "Happy Thanksgiving."

Sadie Dickerson & Sarah Hyland

Up and at 'em! The Just in Time stars rose early to perform at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. 

Dolly Parton 

The "I Will Always Love You" singer shared a sweet message to her followers in a video on Instagram. 

“I am so thankful for all of you and for the memories that we've shared through the years,” she said in the post. “So happy Thanksgiving to everyone, and just know that I will always love you.”

Gigi Hadid

Mama's little helper. The model showed off how her and Zayn Malik's daughter Khai was contributing to Thanksgiving prep. 

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