Who Is Blake Anderson Hanley? Everything to Know About His Life and Career

When people first hear the name Blake Anderson Hanley, many immediately connect it to actress Emily Wickersham, best known for her role on NCIS. But Blake’s story goes far beyond being the ex-husband of a famous star. He is a man of many talents who has managed to build not just one, but two successful careers in very different fields: music and law. Born and raised in Palm Beach, Florida, Blake first gained attention as the lead singer of the indie rock band Ghost Lion, where his soulful voice and thoughtful lyrics earned him a loyal following. Later, he transitioned into law, becoming a respected family and divorce attorney dedicated to helping people during some of the hardest moments in their lives. His journey is inspiring, not only because of his professional success but also because of the resilience and balance he has shown in his personal life as a husband and father.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Blake Anderson Hanley
Date Of Birth: March 2, 1984
Place Of Birth: Palm Beach, Florida, United States
Age: 41 (as of 2025)
Nationality: American
Profession: Musician, Attorney
Famous As: Emily Wickersham’s Ex-Husband
Marital Status: Married
Current Spouse: Mumbi O’Brien
Children: One daughter, Muoni (born 2020)
Ex-Spouse: Emily Wickersham (married 2010–divorced 2018)
Estimated Net Worth: $500,000 – $1 million

Early Life And Family Background

Blake Anderson Hanley was born on March 2, 1984, in Palm Beach, Florida. His family roots stretch across both America and Australia, giving him a multicultural heritage that shaped his worldview. His father, Daniel Hanley, was a professional athlete who played for the Essendon Football Club in the Victorian Football League in Australia. This athletic legacy brought a sense of discipline and determination into Blake’s upbringing. His mother, Denise, worked as a schoolteacher and played a major role in nurturing his love for the arts and literature. Blake grew up with his brother Drew in a supportive household where creativity, hard work, and family values were encouraged. This strong foundation would later help him pursue two different yet equally meaningful careers.

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How Old Is Blake Anderson Hanley

As of 2025, Blake Anderson Hanley is 41 years old. Born in the mid-1980s, he belongs to a generation that values both creativity and stability. His age reflects a point in life where he has gathered enough experience to understand the challenges of two different industries—music and law—while still being active and ambitious enough to keep pursuing new goals. At this stage, Blake has found balance, dividing his energy between his work as an attorney, his passion for music, and his role as a husband and father.

Education And Academic Journey

Education has played a central role in shaping Blake’s career. He started his studies at Palm Beach State College before earning a degree in Communication and Media Studies from Palm Beach Atlantic University. His interest in the arts and communication was clear early on, but Blake also sought to broaden his professional horizons. This led him to Los Angeles, where he studied law at Southwestern Law School. During his time there, he became Vice President of the Music Law Society, a position that allowed him to merge his passion for music with his growing interest in legal matters. His academic journey gave him the foundation to succeed as both an artist and an attorney, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to move confidently in two very different industries.

Music Career With Ghost Lion

Blake’s first career path was music, a passion he pursued wholeheartedly. He became the lead singer of Ghost Lion, an indie rock and pop band known for its heartfelt lyrics and emotionally charged melodies. His songs often explored themes of loneliness, self-discovery, and hope, resonating deeply with listeners. Tracks like Shot the Sun Down and Sinking Stones highlighted his ability to blend storytelling with music, and Ghost Lion quickly built a devoted fan base. Though the band did not achieve massive mainstream fame, its impact on fans and critics was genuine. Blake’s performances stood out for their energy and authenticity, showing just how deeply he connected with his craft. His time in music not only gave him creative fulfillment but also taught him the importance of emotional expression, something that would later prove valuable in his work as a lawyer.

Transition Into Law

After years of creating music, Blake made a bold and surprising decision: he shifted his focus to the legal field. In 2015, he began working as a law clerk at the Inner City Law Center in Los Angeles, where he helped vulnerable individuals navigate legal challenges. Over time, he built a career as a family and divorce attorney, working at firms such as Fine Law PC and The Bruce Law Firm. His legal work has focused on issues like divorce, custody, and domestic violence—areas that require not just technical knowledge, but also empathy and understanding. His background as a musician gave him a unique perspective on communication and human emotion, making him especially skilled at supporting clients through difficult times. Today, Blake continues to balance his professional dedication to law with his creative side, proving that it is possible to succeed in two very different careers.

Marriage To Emily Wickersham

Blake Anderson Hanley’s personal life drew attention when he married actress Emily Wickersham on November 23, 2010. The wedding took place on Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys and was officiated by Blake’s brother Drew. Around 150 guests attended the intimate ceremony. Emily, who later rose to fame as Special Agent Eleanor Bishop on NCIS, shared nearly eight years of marriage with Blake before they decided to divorce in 2018. Unlike many celebrity splits, their separation remained private and respectful, with neither side seeking publicity. While the marriage brought Blake into the public eye, his life story extends far beyond his relationship with Emily.

Who Is Emily Wickersham

Emily Wickersham is a talented actress best known for her role on NCIS, where she appeared from 2013 until her departure in 2021. Born on April 26, 1984, in Kansas, Missouri, Emily pursued acting in Los Angeles and built an impressive career with roles in both television and film. Her appearances include The Sopranos, Gone, and I Am Number Four. While her role on NCIS earned her widespread recognition, she chose to step back from acting in 2021 to focus on her personal life. Emily is now raising her son, Cassius, who was born in December 2021, with her partner, actor James Badge Dale.

Second Marriage And Family Life

After his divorce, Blake eventually found love again with Mumbi O’Brien, a visual artist and costume designer. The two married quietly and welcomed their daughter, Muoni, in May 2020. The name Muoni means “peace,” reflecting the joy and harmony their daughter has brought into their lives. This new chapter has added balance and happiness to Blake’s journey, allowing him to embrace fatherhood while continuing his professional pursuits. His family life today is a mix of creativity, love, and stability, as he enjoys both his work and time at home.

Net Worth And Professional Success

Blake Anderson Hanley’s net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million. His financial stability comes from combining his income as a musician with his steady career in law. Album sales, live performances, and royalties formed the basis of his music earnings, while his legal practice has provided long-term security. Although his net worth is more modest compared to his ex-wife Emily Wickersham’s estimated $6 million, it highlights his ability to build an independent and balanced career path. For Blake, financial success has always been about stability and purpose rather than fame.

Final Thoughts

Blake Anderson Hanley’s life is a fascinating story of creativity, resilience, and reinvention. From performing on stage as a musician to fighting for justice in the courtroom, he has shown that it is possible to follow multiple passions and succeed in both. His journey reflects the courage to take risks, the resilience to overcome challenges, and the wisdom to find balance between work and family. Today, as a husband, father, musician, and attorney, Blake is living proof that life does not have to follow just one path. His story continues to inspire those who believe in the power of versatility, passion, and determination.

FAQs About Blake Anderson Hanley

Who is Blake Anderson Hanley?
Blake Anderson Hanley is an American musician and attorney. He is best known as the lead singer of the indie rock band Ghost Lion and for his career as a family and divorce lawyer. He is also recognized as the former husband of actress Emily Wickersham.

How old is Blake Anderson Hanley?
He was born on March 2, 1984, which makes him 41 years old as of 2025.

What band was Blake Anderson Hanley in?
Blake was the lead vocalist of Ghost Lion, a band known for its emotional indie rock sound and meaningful lyrics.

Is Blake Anderson Hanley still married to Emily Wickersham?
No, Blake and Emily married in 2010 and divorced in 2018 after nearly eight years together.

Who is Blake Anderson Hanley’s current wife?
Blake is married to Mumbi O’Brien, a visual artist and costume designer. Together, they have one daughter.

Does Blake Anderson Hanley have children?
Yes, he has a daughter named Muoni, born in May 2020 with his wife Mumbi O’Brien.

What is Blake Anderson Hanley’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million, earned through both his music career and his work as a family law attorney.