Jessica Simpson Returns to the Stage After 15 Years, Embracing Vulnerability and Style on the Today Show

From wardrobe malfunctions to emotional revelations, Jessica Simpson makes a powerful and personal comeback with her new music and unfiltered spirit on the Today Show Plaza.

Jessica Simpson made a triumphant return to the stage on July 23, 2025, performing live on NBC’s Today Show Plaza for the first time since 2006. At 45, the singer, fashion mogul, and mother of three delivered both music and candid moments, showcasing not only her vocal talent but her signature authenticity.

Performing as part of the Citi Concert Series, Simpson kicked off her set with the release of her new track “Fade,” a powerful anthem marking her first music release in 15 years. Following the performance, Today correspondent Peter Alexander asked her about being back onstage after such a long hiatus. True to form, Simpson responded with humor and honesty.

“It’s insane. And of course I had a malfunction here and everywhere, but it’s okay,” she said, gesturing to her head. “I think my boobs stayed in, so it’s okay.”

The pop star dazzled in a blush pink corset dress adorned with feathered fringe and topped with a silver sparkly jacket, exuding glam with a touch of vulnerability. The performance marked a full-circle moment for Simpson, who last graced the same stage during a very different chapter in her life.

“I was going through divorce no. 1,” she reflected, referencing her split from Nick Lachey during her 2006 Today Show appearance.

Now, nearly two decades later, Simpson returns not only as a performer but as a mother of three — Maxwell, 13, Birdie, 12, and Ace, 6 — whom she shares with former husband Eric Johnson. Simpson and Johnson ended their marriage in January 2025 after ten years together.

Despite the emotional toll of the split, Simpson channeled her journey into music. During her appearance on Today with Jenna & Friends, she opened up about the unexpected evolution of her new record.

“I thought I was going to be doing this inspirational type of record,” she shared. “It ended up leaning more towards, how do I get through this moment because my whole life just completely changed while making this record.”

“But there’s blessings in the pain,” she continued. “You can find beauty in the pain. I want my daughters or my son to know that… Nothing can take us down. Nothing. As long as we are who we are and we know our purpose and we’re guided by that.”

Simpson’s sense of humor remained intact throughout the morning. When asked if her kids were watching the show live, she quipped:

“If not, I’m sure they’ll find it online after or maybe they recorded it. Maybe their dad was nice and hit the thing. Is TiVo still a thing?”

She also gave them a heartfelt shout-out during the live broadcast: “Hi, Maxwell, Ace and Birdie. Mama’s on TV!” The singer noted her children had never seen her perform live and promised to bring them on tour once she regained her footing.

As she concluded her morning of performances — spanning all four hours of Today — Jessica Simpson reminded fans and viewers alike that comeback stories don’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, they’re better when they’re raw, real, and authentically you.