Blake Anderson Hanley is a man of many talents. He is a musician, a lawyer, and the former husband of NCIS star Emily Wickersham. While his marriage brought him public attention, his own story is far more interesting. From leading the indie rock band Ghost Lion to working as a domestic violence attorney, Hanley has built a meaningful life on his own terms. This article explores his music career, legal work, marriage, and where he is today.
Blake Anderson Hanley Biography Table
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Blake Anderson Hanley |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Musician and Attorney |
| Known For | Lead vocalist of Ghost Lion, former husband of Emily Wickersham |
| Education | Law graduate |
| Music Genre | Indie rock, world-pop |
| Marital Status | Married (remarried after divorce) |
| Children | Yes |
| Current Focus | Family, law, and music |
Who Is Blake Anderson Hanley?
Blake Anderson Hanley is best known as the lead singer of the indie rock band Ghost Lion and the former husband of NCIS actress Emily Wickersham.
He is a 42-year-old American musician and family law attorney who has successfully navigated two very different professional worlds. While many people first hear his name because of his famous ex-wife, Hanley has his own compelling story that extends far beyond that relationship. He is a fourth-generation Palm Beacher who grew up in South Florida, surfed at Reef Road, and played soccer at the Rec Center fields. His life reflects a deep commitment to both creative expression and social justice, making him a truly multifaceted individual.
Where Is Blake Anderson Hanley From?
Blake Anderson Hanley is a native of West Palm Beach, Florida.
He grew up in the subtropical culture of South Florida, which would later heavily influence his musical style. Hanley is a fourth-generation Palm Beacher, with deep roots in the community. He spent his formative years in this coastal city, where he developed a love for music and a strong sense of social awareness. After spending nearly a decade living in Los Angeles during his marriage to Emily Wickersham, he eventually returned to his hometown. Today, he continues to call Palm Beach County home, where he practices law and pursues his music career.
Blake Anderson Hanley’s Early Life and Background
Blake Anderson Hanley was born in the United States and grew up in a supportive family that valued both education and creativity.
From a young age, he showed a strong interest in music and learning, two passions that would later define his professional life. His musical journey began with a classical guitar inspired by the self-titled Buena Vista Social Club album, followed by an epiphany with Nine Inch Nails. He began writing songs at the age of 10, and music became a way for him to overcome his paralyzing shyness and process his emotions.
He attended good schools and worked hard in his studies while simultaneously learning to play music and write songs. This balance between creativity and discipline helped him succeed in multiple areas of life. He was also inspired by punk bands like the Clash and the Sex Pistols, as well as their passion for politics and reggae music.
Blake Anderson Hanley’s Music Career
Blake Anderson Hanley is the lead singer and creative force behind the indie rock band Ghost Lion.
The band’s music is a unique blend of indie rock, calypso, cumbia, and electronic music, creating a sound they describe as “subtropical world-pop”. Ghost Lion started as a project between Hanley (vocals, guitar) and Bolivian native Enrique Lara (drums/congas). Hanley released the first Ghost Lion EP, Ballad of St. Panama, in 2017, and the band has since released a full-length album, Nuclear Island, along with several singles.
The band’s music explores themes of fear, spirituality, loneliness, loss, and existential questioning. The name “Ghost Lion” came from friends calling him “Ghost” because he would disappear in the shadows, with the “Lion” added to represent the courage he wished he had. Hanley has performed at major events like SunFest in West Palm Beach, a dream come true for a boy growing up in the area. He previously won a Live Nation Battle of the Bands contest, taking home a grand prize of $35,000 which he used to purchase recording gear.
Ghost Lion: The Indie Rock Band
Ghost Lion is the musical project of South Florida native and singer/producer Blake Hanley.
The band’s music evokes a “nighttime search party for a utopia intended for those fleeing a world on the edge of detonation”. Ghost Lion’s songs feature nylon string acoustic guitar, distorted bass synths, electronic ambience, global rhythms, samples, and live drums. The band is best known for the song “Wrong Guy”. Hanley’s lyrics are broadly resonant and vulnerable, addressing deep personal and social issues. The band was originally formed as Kin Cayo before evolving into Ghost Lion. Hanley relaunched Ghost Lion with drummer Paul O’Leary in 2018 and has since played many opening-slot theater shows around Florida. His music aims to create a welcoming space that represents different cultures harmoniously coexisting, breaking through divisions.
Blake Anderson Hanley’s Career as an Attorney
Blake Anderson Hanley is a domestic violence lawyer with the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County.
He studied law and became a trained lawyer, initially focusing on entertainment and copyright law, which aligned with his interest in music and the creative industry. However, he eventually heeded his drive to effect social justice and began working in family law. Since 2018, he has worked for the Legal Aid Society, providing equal access to the judicial system to low-income residents.
He helps the disadvantaged and works in the public interest, motivated by the social justice messages in his musical influences like the Clash and Bob Marley. Hanley is a board-certified, AV-rated attorney who has also worked as a co-founder and senior partner in business law. His legal career shows that he is not only creative but also serious and professional.
Blake Anderson Hanley and Emily Wickersham Married
Blake Anderson Hanley and Emily Wickersham were married on November 23, 2010.
The intimate wedding ceremony was held on Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys, a picturesque and private setting. The bride was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Atwood Wickersham of New York, while the bridegroom was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Hanley of Palm Beach. The couple celebrated their union with a reception for 150 friends and family members at the Bath & Tennis Club in Palm Beach. Their eight-year marriage would eventually end in divorce in December 2018.
Why Did Blake Anderson Hanley Divorce?
Blake Anderson Hanley and Emily Wickersham divorced in December 2018 after eight years of marriage.
The reason for their divorce has never been publicly explained, as the former couple chose to keep their relationship private. Neither Hanley nor Wickersham has discussed the details of their split publicly. The divorce was quiet and respectful, with both moving on with their lives without public drama. Following the divorce, Hanley relocated to Florida after spending a decade in Los Angeles. He later remarried and became a father, finding happiness and stability in this new chapter of his life.
Does Blake Anderson Hanley Have Children?
Yes, Blake Anderson Hanley has children.
After his divorce from Emily Wickersham, he later remarried and became a father. He now spends much of his time with his family, focusing on his personal life and work. Unlike many people connected to celebrities, Hanley has chosen to keep his family life private and out of the public eye. He values his role as a father and has found fulfillment in his new family.
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Who Is Blake Anderson Hanley’s Wife Now?
Blake Anderson Hanley has remarried since his divorce from Emily Wickersham.
He currently lives with his wife and children, focusing on his family, law practice, and music. Hanley values his privacy and does not seek attention from the media, keeping his personal life away from the public spotlight. He has moved on from his past relationship and is enjoying a quiet, meaningful life with his new family.
Where Is Blake Anderson Hanley Today?
Blake Anderson Hanley currently lives in Florida, where he continues to work as a domestic violence lawyer and pursue his music career.
He is based in Palm Beach County, his hometown, where he works with the Legal Aid Society. He remains the lead vocalist of Ghost Lion and continues to write and perform music. Hanley is not active on social media and stays mostly out of the public eye. He now spends much of his time with his family and continues working in law and music. His life shows that success does not always mean fame, and sometimes a quiet, meaningful life is more rewarding.
Blake Anderson Hanley’s Net Worth
Blake Anderson Hanley’s exact net worth is not publicly documented.
As a practicing attorney and professional musician, he has built a stable career through his work in law and music. His legal work with the Legal Aid Society and his previous roles in business law provide a steady income, while his music with Ghost Lion adds to his earnings. However, unlike many celebrities, Hanley has chosen to keep his financial details private. His focus remains on his work and family rather than public recognition or wealth accumulation.
Final Thoughts
Blake Anderson Hanley is a man who has successfully built a life on his own terms, balancing two demanding careers while maintaining his privacy.
His journey from a shy, music-loving kid in Palm Beach to a rock frontman and family lawyer is both inspiring and unique. While he may always be known as Emily Wickersham’s ex-husband, his story is about so much more than that relationship. He has shown that it is possible to pursue creative passions while also making a meaningful impact through public service. Hanley’s life is a testament to the value of hard work, honesty, and balance. He continues to live quietly in Florida, focused on his family, his law practice, and his music, proving that a fulfilling life doesn’t require a spotlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blake Anderson Hanley a musician?
Yes, Blake Anderson Hanley is a musician and the lead singer of the indie rock band Ghost Lion. He writes, performs, and produces music that blends indie rock, calypso, cumbia, and electronic elements.
Is Blake Anderson Hanley a lawyer?
Yes, Blake Anderson Hanley is a trained attorney specializing in family and domestic violence law. He works with the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, helping low-income residents access the judicial system.
Was Blake Anderson Hanley married to Emily Wickersham?
Yes, Blake Anderson Hanley was married to actress Emily Wickersham from November 23, 2010, until their divorce in December 2018. Emily Wickersham is best known for her role as Special Agent Ellie Bishop on NCIS.
Does Blake Anderson Hanley have children?
Yes, Blake Anderson Hanley has children. After his divorce from Emily Wickersham, he remarried and became a father.
What is Blake Anderson Hanley known for?
Blake Anderson Hanley is best known as the lead vocalist of the indie rock band Ghost Lion and as the former husband of NCIS actress Emily Wickersham. He is also recognized for his work as a domestic violence lawyer in Palm Beach County.
