Ashlee Simpson Reflects on Her Past MTV Show and Why She’s Stepping Away from Reality TV
Ashlee Simpson, known for her hit tune “Pieces of Me,” is taking a trip down memory lane as she looks back on her time spent on MTV’s ‘The Ashlee Simpson Show’ and discusses why she’s decided to bid farewell to reality TV. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Simpson shared her thoughts on her reality TV experience and her decision to move on from that chapter of her career.
The songstress opened up about her time on ‘The Ashlee Simpson Show,’ which followed her journey leading up to the release of her debut album Autobiography in 2004. Reflecting on that era, Simpson remarked, “We just kind of put it all out there. It was such a different time in reality TV.” The show documented various aspects of her life, both personal and professional, capturing candid moments as they unfolded.
Initially inspired by her sister Jessica’s success with ‘Newlyweds,’ the show aired for two seasons from 2004-2005. Simpson admitted to revisiting some episodes of the show, finding them amusing. She shared, “It makes me laugh… We were like, ‘Why are we filming me try to mop?’ But it was just honest, real moments.” Simpson also mentioned that her two best friends from the show, Lauren Harrison and Stephenie Pearson, are still close to her heart.
In 2018, Simpson made a comeback to reality TV with ‘Ashlee+Evan’ on the E! network. The show focused on her life with husband Evan Ross as they worked on a musical project together while raising their children. However, Simpson has now decided to step away from reality TV, asserting, “I don’t think I would necessarily do another series with my family… I love not having cameras in my house. It’s so nice.”
Currently, Simpson is making a return to music with her Las Vegas residency, ‘I Am Me,’ named after her 2005 album. Excited about this music venture, she shared, “I haven’t played a full set in like 20 years, so I’m so excited… This just felt like the right opportunity to dive back into it and relive this old music.” The residency is scheduled to run until September 27.
Looking ahead, Simpson hinted at the possibility of exploring different avenues in the future, such as a documentary. She emphasised the importance of her children having a sense of normalcy in their lives, indicating her preference for privacy when it comes to her family’s daily routines.
As fans eagerly anticipate Simpson’s musical comeback, she remains grateful for the experiences she’s had in the entertainment industry. For more insights from Ashlee Simpson, be sure to grab the latest issue of PEOPLE, available at newsstands now.
In conclusion, Ashlee Simpson’s journey through reality TV has been a significant part of her career, but as she embarks on a new chapter in music, she is choosing to focus on her passion for performing without the added spotlight of reality television cameras.