Music power couple Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires have announced their decision to part ways. Isbell, 45, officially filed for divorce from Shires, 41, on December 15, just two months shy of what would have been their 11th wedding anniversary, as revealed in court documents obtained by People Magazine.
The duo, who share a daughter named Mercy, aged 8, has been a formidable musical force since they tied the knot in February 2013. Shires, known for her mesmerizing fiddling and backing vocals, has been an integral part of Isbell’s band, the 400 Unit, while Isbell has lent his guitar talents to Shires’ country supergroup, The Highwomen.
Hints of trouble in paradise began to surface for observant fans when the couple ceased appearing together in public and recent social media activity raised eyebrows. Notably, a birthday tribute to Isbell shared on Shires’ social media account was swiftly removed, followed by both Isbell and Shires unfollowing each other on Instagram.
Despite outward displays of affection during their 10th anniversary celebrations in February 2023, Isbell and Shires have been candid about the strains in their relationship, exacerbated by the release of Isbell’s album ‘Reunions’ in 2020.
Their marital struggles were laid bare in the 2023 documentary ‘Running With Our Eyes Closed,’ capturing a poignant moment where Shires discussed the possibility of marriage counselling with Isbell.
Reflecting on their challenges, Shires emphasised the universal nature of relationships, regardless of fame. Isbell, who has been sober since 2012, admitted to pushing away loved ones during the making of ‘Reunions,’ lamenting the difficulty of navigating their disconnect.
Shires’ perspective on their marital turbulence found expression in her 2022 song ‘Fault Lines,’ offering insight into their struggles during the pandemic.
As the news of their separation reverberates through the music industry, fans are left to ponder the future paths of these talented artists and wish them well on their individual journeys.
