Full Breakdown
Josh Duhamel's Return to Roots and New Film "London Calling"
9/19/2025, 12:49:49 AM
Embracing His Roots in Minnesota
Josh Duhamel, the 52-year-old actor known for his roles in "Transformers" and "Safe Haven," has chosen to raise his children away from the Hollywood spotlight, opting for a life in Minnesota. Duhamel, who shares a 12-year-old son, Axl, with ex-wife Fergie and a 20-month-old son, Shepherd, with current wife Audra Mari, expressed his desire for his children to experience a childhood similar to his own in North Dakota. He stated, “It’s also nice to get them out in the woods and get dirty and learn a few things that I learned growing up.” Duhamel built his cabin in Minnesota nearly two decades ago, reflecting on how it allows him to relive his youth while providing a grounded environment for his family.
The Role of Tommy in "London Calling"
Duhamel stars in the upcoming action-comedy film "London Calling," directed by Allan Ungar, which opens in theaters on September 19, 2025. In the film, he plays Tommy Ward, a washed-up hitman who must mentor a young man while navigating a chaotic situation after a botched job. Duhamel described the character as “cool – really flawed – but cool,” emphasizing the film's blend of dark humor and heartfelt moments. He noted that the role resonated with him, as it reflects his own struggles with fatherhood and career balance.
Balancing Career and Fatherhood
Duhamel has openly discussed the challenges of balancing his acting career with his responsibilities as a father. He acknowledged feelings of guilt about not being present enough for his children, stating, “I work a lot, and I often have a lot of guilt about not being there as often as I could be.” He credits his supportive wife, Audra Mari, and ex-wife Fergie for helping him navigate these challenges. Duhamel's role in "London Calling" has prompted him to reflect on his parenting, as he sees parallels between his character's journey and his own experiences as a father.
Official Statements & Responses
In interviews, Duhamel has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with Ungar again, following their collaboration on the 2022 film "Bandit." He praised the director for creating a trusting environment that allows for creative input. Ungar noted that Duhamel's ability to humanize characters adds depth to their projects, making them more relatable to audiences.
Criticism & Opposition
While Duhamel's transition to a quieter life in Minnesota has been positively received, some critics argue that his departure from Hollywood may limit his career opportunities. However, Duhamel remains committed to his choice, emphasizing the importance of family and personal fulfillment over fame.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You know, 16, 17, years ago, when I built this place, it was weirdly me almost reliving my youth, in a way.” — Josh Duhamel
- “I work a lot, and I often have a lot of guilt about not being there as often as I could be.” — Josh Duhamel
- “And I think that Jeremy [Ray Taylor’s] character in the movie makes him realize that.” — Josh Duhamel on his character's growth in "London Calling."
As Duhamel prepares for the release of "London Calling," he continues to embrace his roots while navigating the complexities of fatherhood and a dynamic acting career.
