Blake Anderson Hanley is an American figure known for his remarkable combination of two very different careers — as a musician and a family law attorney. Gaining early recognition as the lead singer of the indie rock band Ghost Lion, Blake Anderson Hanley’s emotional and heartfelt music attracted a dedicated fan base. Later, he made a bold career shift into law, where he now helps families navigate difficult and sensitive legal matters. Beyond his professional life, Blake is also known as the former husband of actress Emily Wickersham, but his story goes much deeper.
His life reflects a unique blend of creativity, hard work, and compassion, all while balancing his roles as a husband and father. This article explores Blake Anderson Hanley’s life journey in depth, from his early days to his achievements in both music and law.
Personal Details of Blake Anderson Hanley
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Blake Anderson Hanley |
| Date of Birth | March 2, 1984 |
| Age | 39 (as of 2023) |
| Place of Birth | Palm Beach, Florida, USA |
| Profession | Musician, Family Law Attorney |
| Known For | Lead singer of Ghost Lion, Former husband of Emily Wickersham |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Mumbi O’Brien |
| Children | Daughter: Muoni |
| Ex-Spouse | Emily Wickersham |
| Father | Daniel Hanley |
| Mother | Denise Hanley |
| Sibling(s) | Drew Hanley |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Light Brown |
| Net Worth | $500,000 – $1 million |
Early Life and Family Background
Blake Anderson Hanley was born on March 2, 1984, in Palm Beach, Florida. He grew up in a multicultural family, with roots tracing back to both America and Australia. His father, Daniel Hanley, was a sportsman who once played for the Essendon Football Club in Australia’s Victorian Football League, adding a legacy of discipline and athleticism to the family.
Blake’s mother, Denise Hanley, was a school teacher who nurtured his creative side by encouraging his love for the arts and literature from an early age. Blake Anderson Hanley was raised alongside his brother Drew in a supportive and nurturing environment that blended strong family values with a rich cultural heritage. This upbringing helped shape Blake’s diverse interests and set the stage for his varied career paths.
Physical Appearance and Personality Traits
Blake Anderson Hanley is known for his calm and approachable appearance. He has black hair and light brown eyes, which give him a warm and friendly look. His style tends to be casual yet neat, reflecting his down-to-earth personality. Whether performing on stage or meeting clients in court, Blake’s demeanor remains sincere and relatable. His appearance and personality combine to make him easily accessible to both fans and clients alike, helping him build strong connections in all areas of his life.
Education and Academic Journey
Blake Anderson Hanley’s educational background is as diverse as his career. He began at Palm Beach State College before earning a degree in Communication and Media Studies from Palm Beach Atlantic University. This foundation in communication provided valuable skills that benefited both his music and legal professions. Seeking further growth, Blake moved to Los Angeles and enrolled at Southwestern Law School. While in law school, he served as Vice President of the Music Law Society, a role that allowed him to combine his passions for music and law. His education reflects a thoughtful bridging of two worlds, equipping him with the tools to succeed in both.
Music Career and Artistic Achievements
Blake Anderson Hanley’s passion for music found expression as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Ghost Lion. Formed while living in New York, the band’s sound blended indie rock and pop with deeply emotional lyrics that explored themes of loneliness, hope, and self-discovery. Ghost Lion’s debut album received praise for its heartfelt songwriting and unique musical style, attracting a loyal following. Notable songs like “Shot the Sun Down” and “Sinking Stones” showcase Blake’s talent for storytelling through music. The band’s live performances were known for their energy and genuine connection with audiences, cementing Blake’s reputation as a sincere and impactful artist in the indie music scene.
Transition to Legal Career
After years in the music industry, Blake chose to pursue a more stable and service-driven career in law. Starting in 2015, he worked as a Law Clerk at the Inner City Law Center in Los Angeles, gaining valuable experience helping vulnerable populations. He later held roles at Fine Law PC and the Bruce Law Firm, specializing in family law, divorce cases, and domestic violence matters. Blake’s empathy, combined with his creativity, enriches his approach to law, allowing him to provide compassionate support to clients during challenging times. His dedication and skill have earned him respect in the legal community and highlight the success of his bold career transition.
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Personal Life and Relationships: To Emily Wickersham
Blake Anderson Hanley married actress Emily Wickersham on November 23, 2010, in an intimate ceremony on Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys. Their wedding was a close-knit event attended by family and friends, including Blake’s brother Drew, who officiated the ceremony. Emily is best known for her role as Special Agent Eleanor Bishop on the television series NCIS. After nearly eight years of marriage, the couple separated in 2018 but chose to keep their private life out of the public eye, maintaining mutual respect throughout their divorce.
Following this chapter, Blake found love again with Mumbi O’Brien, a talented visual artist and costume designer. The couple married quietly and welcomed their daughter, Muoni, in May 2020. The name Muoni means “peace,” reflecting the joy she brings to their family. Blake’s personal life today shows a balance between his professional commitments and his roles as a husband and father.
Social Media and Public Presence
Blake Anderson Hanley maintains an active social media presence, primarily through his Instagram account @blakehansolo. There, he shares a mix of personal family moments, insights into his music career, and highlights from his legal work. Blake uses his platform to connect authentically with his followers, offering a genuine look at his life while carefully balancing openness with privacy. His posts often celebrate his daughter Muoni and wife Mumbi, as well as his ongoing passions, helping him maintain a loyal and engaged audience.
Financial Overview and Net Worth
Blake Anderson Hanley’s dual career has contributed to a steady and diverse financial foundation, with his estimated net worth ranging between $500,000 and $1 million. His income sources include earnings from album sales, live music performances, royalties as Ghost Lion’s lead singer, and his legal practice specializing in family law. While this net worth is more modest compared to his ex-wife Emily Wickersham’s estimated $6 million, Blake’s financial success highlights his ability to build a stable and independent livelihood through dedication and varied skills. His financial stability supports both his family life and career ambitions.
Challenges and Overcoming Doubts
Throughout his life, Blake Anderson Hanley has faced challenges, including media scrutiny during his high-profile marriage and divorce. The public interest in his personal life added pressure to maintain privacy and balance. Additionally, his decision to leave a creative music career for law was met with skepticism by some. Changing career paths so dramatically can bring uncertainty and doubt, but Blake’s perseverance and hard work allowed him to overcome these obstacles. His resilience serves as an inspiring example of following one’s convictions despite outside doubts.
Current Projects and Future Aspirations
Blake continues to pursue his dual passions by focusing on family law cases that make a positive impact. At the same time, he remains connected to music and hints at future projects that reflect his artistic growth. He also advocates for artists’ legal rights, using his unique blend of expertise to help musicians navigate complex legal challenges. Looking ahead, Blake aims to expand his legal practice while maintaining creative expression, balancing professional growth with personal fulfillment.
Conclusion
Blake Anderson Hanley’s life story is a testament to versatility, dedication, and courage. He has successfully combined the worlds of music and law, demonstrating that it is possible to excel in multiple fields with passion and perseverance. His journey from a supportive family background to leading a band and practicing law shows the power of embracing change and following diverse dreams. As a devoted husband and father, Blake balances professional achievement with family life, inspiring others to pursue their goals with heart and resilience.
FAQs About Blake Anderson Hanley
Who is Blake Anderson Hanley?
Blake Anderson Hanley is an American musician and family law attorney known for being the lead singer of the indie rock band Ghost Lion. He is also recognized as the former husband of actress Emily Wickersham. Blake uniquely balances his creative and legal careers while maintaining a strong family life.
What band was Blake Hanley a part of?
Blake was the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Ghost Lion. The band gained attention for its emotional indie rock sound and meaningful lyrics. Though not mainstream famous, Ghost Lion earned a dedicated fan base and critical respect.
When did Blake Hanley marry and divorce Emily Wickersham?
Blake married Emily Wickersham in November 2010 in an intimate ceremony in Florida. The couple separated in 2018 after nearly eight years of marriage. Despite the split, they maintained a respectful and private relationship throughout.
What is Blake Hanley’s current profession?
Blake Anderson Hanley now works as a family and divorce attorney, specializing in cases involving family law and domestic violence. He uses empathy and legal expertise to support clients during challenging times. He also remains connected to music through advocacy and occasional projects.
Does Blake Hanley have children?
Yes, Blake has one daughter named Muoni, born in May 2020, with his wife Mumbi O’Brien. The name Muoni means “peace,” symbolizing the joy she brings to their family. Blake often shares glimpses of his role as a devoted father on social media.
