Jason Isbell is speaking out for the first time about his recent divorce from Amanda Shires after a decade of marriage.
In a recent episode of the “Broken Record Podcast” released on Tuesday, February 27, the 45-year-old six-time Grammy winner shared his reflections on the relationship. Isbell and Shires, 41, tied the knot in February 2013, but Isbell filed for divorce in December 2023, as confirmed by Us Weekly.
The couple’s journey began when they started dating in 2011, culminating in marriage two years later after Isbell’s decision to seek sobriety and undergo rehab. Throughout their marriage, they collaborated musically, with Isbell even dedicating one of his renowned songs, “Cover Me Up,” in 2013 to Shires, who encouraged his recovery from addiction.
Shires frequently joined Isbell’s band, the 400 Unit, on stage as a fiddler, while Isbell supported her career by playing guitar for her country supergroup, The Highwomen, alongside Maren Morris, Brandi Carlile, and Natalie Hemby.
However, their marital struggles became public last year when they candidly discussed their relationship issues in the documentary “Running With Our Eyes Closed,” including their experiences with marriage counseling.
In a separate interview with People, Isbell emphasized his commitment to ensuring the well-being of their 8-year-old daughter, Mercy, amidst the split, expressing that they are currently on amicable terms.
Despite the end of his marriage, Isbell remains dedicated to his music career and upcoming tour, acknowledging that his catalog includes many love songs written during his marriage. He explained that he sees performing these songs as a way to honor the emotional connections listeners have with his music, emphasizing that the end of a relationship doesn’t equate to failure.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Isbell recently ventured into acting with his feature film debut in the Academy Award-nominated “Killers of the Flower Moon.” He also received Grammy Awards earlier this month for Best American Roots Song and Best Americana Album.