Have you ever wondered what happens to people who were once close to famous stars but then quietly disappear from the spotlight? That is exactly what makes Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, so interesting.
Many people know Scott Stapp as the powerful voice behind the rock band Creed. But very few know the story of the woman who was once a big part of his life. Hillaree Burns lived through love, fame, and a difficult breakup—yet she chose a very different path after it all.
In this article, we will explore the real story of Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife. We will talk about her early life, her short marriage, their son, and the events that followed. Everything is explained in a simple and friendly way so you can understand her story clearly.
Who Is Hillaree Burns?
So, who is Hillaree Burns?
Hillaree Burns is best known as Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, but her story is more than just that title. She is an American woman who came into the public eye because of her relationship with a famous rock singer.
What makes Hillaree different from many others linked to celebrities is her choice to stay private. She did not try to become famous. She did not appear in shows or share her life online. Instead, she stayed away from attention, which makes people even more curious about her.
Even today, many people search for Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, because her life feels like a mystery. She had a connection to fame, but she chose peace instead.
Early Life and Background
Hillaree Burns was born in 1978 in the United States. She is American and comes from a Caucasian background. As of recent years, she is in her mid-40s.
But here is something interesting. There is very little public information about her early life. We do not know much about her parents, her school life, or her career before meeting Scott Stapp.
This tells us something important about her personality. Hillaree has always been a private person. Even before she became known as Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, she lived a normal and quiet life.
And honestly, that makes her story feel more real. She was not chasing fame. She was just living her life like anyone else.
How Hillaree Burns Met Scott Stapp
Every story has a beginning, and for Hillaree Burns, it started when she met Scott Stapp.
They began dating in 1997, at a time when Scott was still building his music career. Creed had not yet reached its biggest success, so life was likely simpler back then.
Imagine meeting someone before they become famous. There are no cameras, no pressure, and no public opinions. That is how their relationship likely started—simple and real.
Their connection grew quickly. They spent time together, got to know each other, and built a bond that soon turned serious. At that point, no one could guess how much their lives would change in just a few years.
Hillaree Burns and Scott Stapp’s Marriage
Things moved fast between them. After about a year of dating, Hillaree Burns and Scott Stapp decided to get married.
They tied the knot in January 1998 in what was described as a beautiful ceremony. It was a big step, especially since Scott’s career was starting to rise.
But being married to a rock star is not always easy. Fame brings long tours, busy schedules, and a lot of pressure. Even strong relationships can struggle under that kind of stress.
Sadly, their marriage did not last long. It lasted only about one year, which shows how quickly things changed. Their love story was short, but it was also very intense.
Their Son, Jagger Stapp
One of the most important parts of their story is their son, Jagger Stapp.
Jagger became a lasting connection between Hillaree Burns and Scott Stapp. No matter what happened between them, they both shared the role of being parents.
However, after their divorce, something important happened. Scott Stapp received full custody of Jagger. This means Jagger mainly grew up with his father.
Even though we do not know many details about Hillaree’s role after that, it is clear that Jagger remained a very important part of both their lives. In fact, Scott once said that his son was one of the greatest gifts he ever received.
This part of the story adds a strong emotional layer. It reminds us that behind every public story, there are real family moments and real feelings.
Why Hillaree Burns and Scott Stapp Divorced
So, what went wrong?
Hillaree Burns and Scott Stapp officially divorced on June 8, 1999, just one year after their wedding. The exact reason for their divorce was never fully shared with the public.
But we can understand a few possible factors. Scott was becoming famous, and fame can bring stress, pressure, and personal struggles. It is not easy to balance a growing career with a new marriage.
There were also signs that their relationship faced serious challenges. Issues related to personal life and possibly parenting may have played a role.
Sometimes, relationships simply do not work out, no matter how strong they once were. Their story is a reminder that even love can change when life becomes complicated.
Controversy After Divorce
After their divorce, things did not stay calm for long.
There was a serious incident where Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, was arrested after an argument with her ex-husband. Reports said that during a disagreement, she allegedly hit him with a cell phone.
The argument was said to be about child custody, which can be a very emotional and stressful topic for any parent.
This moment brought unwanted attention to Hillaree Burns. It showed that their relationship struggles did not end with the divorce. Instead, some issues continued even after they separated.
At the same time, it is important to remember that difficult situations can happen in many relationships, especially when emotions are high.
Scott Stapp’s Words About Hillaree Burns
Even after everything that happened, Scott Stapp shared something surprising.
In a 2001 interview, he spoke kindly about Hillaree Burns. He said:
“I’ll always love her. She gave me one of the greatest gifts in my life, my son.”
This shows a softer side of their story. Despite the problems, there was still respect and appreciation.
It also reminds us that relationships are not always black and white. People can go through hard times but still care about each other in some way.
Hillaree Burns’ Life After Divorce
After everything that happened, Hillaree Burns chose a very different path.
Instead of staying in the spotlight, Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, stepped away from public life. She did not give interviews. She did not try to build a career in media. She simply chose a quiet and private life.
Think about it for a moment. Many people who are linked to famous stars try to stay in the public eye. But Hillaree did the opposite. She moved away from attention and focused on her own peace.
This choice says a lot about her personality. It shows that she values privacy more than fame. And in today’s world, that is something many people respect.
Scott Stapp’s Life After Their Marriage
While Hillaree Burns stayed private, Scott Stapp’s life continued in the public eye.
He became widely known as the lead singer of Creed. The band had huge success, with many hit songs and fans around the world. Later, he also worked with the band Art of Anarchy and released solo albums like The Great Divide, Proof of Life, and The Space Between the Shadows.
But his journey was not easy. Scott faced many personal struggles. He dealt with addiction, mental health issues, and tough times in his career. In 2015, he shared that he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder after a difficult period in his life.
Over time, he worked on recovery. He became sober and followed a step-by-step program to improve his life. By 2026, he continues to focus on music, healing, and his family. His story shows growth, learning, and strength after hard times.
Scott Stapp’s Family and Fatherhood
Family became a very important part of Scott Stapp’s life.
After his divorce from Hillaree Burns, he married Jaclyn Nesheiwat in 2006. She is a model and a former beauty pageant winner. Together, they built a family and welcomed three children.
Scott is also the father of Jagger Stapp, his son with Hillaree Burns. He often speaks about how important his children are to him. In fact, he has called them his “purpose in life.”
This part of the story is very powerful. It shows how fatherhood changed him. It also connects back to Hillaree Burns, because Jagger is a lifelong bond between them.
How Hillaree Burns Stands Out
There is something unique about Hillaree Burns.
Many people connected to celebrities try to stay in the spotlight. They build careers, share their lives online, and stay in the news. But Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, chose a different path.
She stayed quiet. She stayed private. And she kept her life simple.
This makes her stand out even more. In a world where everyone wants attention, choosing privacy is rare. It shows strength and a clear sense of what truly matters.
Where Is Hillaree Burns Today?
So, where is Hillaree Burns today?
As of 2026, she is believed to be living a very private life in the United States. There are no confirmed updates about her daily life, career, or personal activities.
She is not active on social media. She does not appear in public events. And she does not share details about her life with the media.
This mystery is part of what keeps people interested in her. Even though she is known as Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, she has created a life that is completely her own.
Final Thoughts
The story of Hillaree Burns is simple, yet powerful.
She was once part of a famous life. She experienced love, marriage, and challenges with a rising rock star. She went through a difficult divorce and even faced public controversy.
But in the end, she chose something different.
Hillaree Burns, Scott Stapp’s ex-wife, chose privacy, peace, and a quiet life away from the spotlight. And that choice is what makes her story stand out.
Her journey reminds us that not everyone wants fame. Sometimes, the strongest choice is to step away and live life on your own terms.
(FAQs)
Where is Hillaree Burns living today?
Hillaree Burns is believed to be living in the United States. She keeps her life very private, so her exact location is not publicly known. This mystery is one reason people are still curious about her.
What is Hillaree Burns’ life like today?
Today, Hillaree Burns lives a very quiet and low-key life. She stays away from social media, interviews, and public events. Unlike many people linked to celebrities, she chose peace over fame.
How old is Hillaree Burns and when is her birthday?
Hillaree Burns was born in 1978, which makes her in her mid-40s as of 2026. Her exact birthday has not been shared publicly, which adds to her private image.
What does Hillaree Burns do for a living?
There is no confirmed information about Hillaree Burns’ job or profession. She has never shared her career details publicly, which is surprising for someone connected to a famous star.
Is Hillaree Burns still in contact with Scott Stapp?
There is no public update about their current relationship. However, they share a son, Jagger, so they have remained connected through parenthood in the past.
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