The ‘Transformers’ actor shares the real motivation behind adapting to a healthier lifestyle

Josh Duhamel, the Transformers star known for his action-packed roles and charming screen presence, is embracing fatherhood in his 50s with renewed energy and purpose. In a candid interview with PEOPLE on May 8, 2025, the 52-year-old actor opened up about how his one-year-old son, Shepherd, has become his driving force for adopting a healthier lifestyle. As a father to Shepherd, shared with wife Audra Mari, and 11-year-old Axl, from his previous marriage to Fergie, Duhamel’s reflections reveal a man committed to being an active, hands-on dad. Fans are buzzing over his relatable journey—could his story inspire others to prioritize health for their families? Let’s dive into the details, fan reactions, and the broader impact of his fatherhood insights.

A New Chapter in Fatherhood

Josh Duhamel’s life as a father has taken on new meaning since welcoming Shepherd in January 2024. In his PEOPLE interview, he shared how his toddler has motivated him to overhaul his lifestyle, moving away from past habits that left him feeling unfocused. “For so many years I probably didn’t eat right, I probably drank too much, and it was hurting me in a lot of ways,” he admitted. “I wasn’t as clear as I needed to be and I wasn’t focused on the right stuff.” Now, at 52, Duhamel is prioritizing fitness and clarity to keep up with his energetic kids.

His motivation is rooted in a desire to be fully present for Shepherd and Axl. “I want to be able to run around with my kids, I want to roll around in the dirt with them,” he said. “I want to get out there and water-ski, jet-ski and ski and play basketball and football, all the things.” This vision of active fatherhood resonates with fans, who took to X to praise his dedication. One user posted, “Josh Duhamel getting fit to play with his kids is so wholesome! Dad goals! 🏃‍♂️ #Fatherhood.” Another wrote, “Love how he’s all about rolling in the dirt with his boys. That’s real parenting.”

Gushing Over Shepherd’s Milestones

Duhamel’s pride in Shepherd shines through as he describes the one-year-old’s boundless energy. “He’s boundless, very, very active. He started walking early—in his ninth month,” he shared, marveling at his son’s early milestones. The toddler’s love for play, especially throwing and catching a ball, has Duhamel eager to join in. “He’s so fun. He loves to throw a ball and is trying to play catch. And I don’t want to sit on the couch and watch him, I want to get down on the floor with him to play,” he added.

This hands-on approach has endeared Duhamel to fans, who see his enthusiasm as a testament to the joys of fatherhood later in life. On X, one fan tweeted, “Shepherd’s already walking and throwing balls at 1? Josh is gonna have his hands full! 😍.” Another commented, “Josh talking about playing on the floor with his kid is the cutest thing. He’s living for those moments.” Shepherd’s early activity also sparked playful speculation about his future, with one user joking, “Sounds like Shepherd’s ready for the NBA! 🏀.”

Balancing Fatherhood with Two Sons

Duhamel’s fatherhood journey spans two generations, as he navigates parenting a toddler and a preteen. His 11-year-old son, Axl, shared with ex-wife Fergie, is a key part of his active lifestyle. While Duhamel didn’t delve into Axl’s specific activities in the interview, his commitment to being a “run around” dad suggests he’s equally involved in Axl’s world, whether it’s sports or outdoor adventures. The actor’s blended family dynamic—co-parenting with Fergie while raising Shepherd with Audra Mari—highlights his adaptability and dedication.

Fans on X have praised Duhamel’s ability to balance his roles, with posts like, “Josh being a dad to a 1yo and an 11yo at 52? That’s some serious energy! 🙌.” Others noted the challenges of parenting across age gaps, with one user writing, “Respect to Josh for keeping up with a toddler and a tween. That’s a workout in itself!” His focus on health ensures he can be present for both sons, from chasing Shepherd to cheering at Axl’s activities.

A Shift to Healthier Habits

Duhamel’s transformation is a powerful narrative of personal growth. His candid admission about past unhealthy habits—poor diet and excessive drinking—resonates with many who face similar struggles. By prioritizing fitness, he’s not only improving his own well-being but also setting an example for his children. “I want to live a life with healthy habits for my kids,” he told PEOPLE, emphasizing longevity and engagement over mere appearance.

This shift has sparked conversations on X about the importance of health in parenthood. “Josh Duhamel cleaning up his diet to be a better dad is inspiring. It’s never too late to change! 💪,” one user posted. Another shared, “Love how he’s honest about his past. Getting fit for his kids shows what’s really important.” Duhamel’s story aligns with a broader trend of celebrities, like Chris Hemsworth and Mark Wahlberg, advocating for fitness as a tool for active parenting.

Cultural Context: Fatherhood in the Spotlight

Duhamel’s openness about fatherhood in his 50s taps into a growing cultural conversation about older parents. Stars like Robert De Niro, who welcomed a daughter at 79, and Al Pacino, a father at 83, have highlighted the joys and challenges of parenting later in life. Duhamel, at a relatively youthful 52, offers a relatable perspective, focusing on physical vitality to match his kids’ energy. His emphasis on “rolling in the dirt” and playing sports reflects a hands-on, traditional view of fatherhood that resonates with audiences.

His story also challenges stereotypes about aging in Hollywood. While Duhamel remains a heartthrob, known for roles in Transformers and Safe Haven, his focus on fatherhood over fame humanizes him. On X, one fan noted, “Josh could just coast on his looks, but he’s out here grinding to be a great dad. Respect.” His journey underscores the value of health as a legacy for children, a message that’s gaining traction in parenting communities.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

The PEOPLE interview has generated a wave of positivity on X, with fans celebrating Duhamel’s fatherly devotion. “Josh Duhamel talking about playing with Shepherd is so pure. That’s what fatherhood’s about! 😊,” one user tweeted. Others shared personal stories, like, “Josh’s story hits home. I started working out to keep up with my kids too. It changes everything.” The hashtag #DadGoals trended briefly, with fans posting GIFs of Duhamel’s action scenes alongside captions like, “From Transformers to super dad! 🦸‍♂️.”

Some fans speculated about Shepherd’s future, joking, “With Josh as his dad, Shepherd’s gonna be water-skiing by age 5! 😂.” Others admired Duhamel’s transparency, with one writing, “Not many celebs admit to past mistakes like drinking too much. Josh keeping it real is why we stan.” The outpouring of support reflects Duhamel’s enduring appeal as a relatable, down-to-earth star.

What’s Next for Josh Duhamel?

Beyond fatherhood, Duhamel remains active in Hollywood, with recent roles in Buddy Games: Spring Awakening and upcoming projects in development. His marriage to Audra Mari, a former Miss World America, has brought stability, and their shared joy in raising Shepherd is evident. Co-parenting Axl with Fergie, who has spoken positively about their amicable relationship, continues to be a priority. Duhamel’s focus on fitness suggests he’s gearing up for an active future, both on and off screen.

Fans are eager for more glimpses into his family life, with some on X hoping for social media updates about Shepherd’s milestones. “Josh, post a vid of you and Shepherd throwing that ball! We need it! 😍,” one user pleaded. Whether he’s jet-skiing with Axl or playing catch with Shepherd, Duhamel’s commitment to being a hands-on dad will likely remain a central part of his story.

Conclusion

Josh Duhamel’s heartfelt insights into fatherhood in his 50s paint a picture of a man transformed by love for his children. His dedication to staying fit for Shepherd and Axl, coupled with his candid reflections on past struggles, has struck a chord with fans. As he embraces the chaos and joy of parenting a toddler and a preteen, Duhamel proves that age is no barrier to being an active, engaged dad. His journey, shared with authenticity and warmth, inspires others to prioritize health and family, making him a true role model in Hollywood and beyond.