Josh Duhamel Discusses Preparedness of ‘Doomsday Cabin’ for Potential Apocalypse
Josh Duhamel, the well-known actor and father of two, has given an exclusive interview to PEOPLE, shedding light on his Minnesota property which he affectionately refers to as his “doomsday cabin”. Duhamel, aged 52, shared insights on how his off-grid lakeside home would hold up in the face of a potential apocalypse. The actor, who is also partnering with CarGurus for their new video series ‘The Big Deal Show’, expressed a mix of readiness and room for improvement when it comes to his cabin’s survival capabilities, laughing, “Well, I have enough. Not 100%. Probably 70%.”
Acknowledging the need for continuous preparedness, Duhamel admitted that there are areas he could enhance to make his cabin fully self-sufficient, whether it be for everyday living or taking on doomsday scenarios. He mused, “I could be a better hunter, I could be a better fisherman. I could stockpile a little more food supply.” Despite not being fully prepared, Duhamel’s proactive approach towards ensuring his and his family’s safety is evident in his efforts to fortify their remote retreat in Minnesota.
Over a decade ago, Duhamel acquired an empty half-parcel of land in Minnesota, roughly an hour-and-a-half drive from Fargo, N.D. This was the beginning of his journey towards setting up a rustic cabin, gradually expanding and improving the space over time. Initially devoid of modern amenities like electricity and running water, the lakeside property has evolved into a sanctuary where the Duhamel family can unwind and reconnect with nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Reflecting on his decision to invest in this property, the actor shared with PEOPLE, “I make movies and TV shows, and I love it, I truly do love it, but I had this calling.” This calling spurred him to engage in hands-on activities, embracing a simpler way of life that involved fixing and creating things from scratch. Duhamel’s dedication to honing basic skills and fostering a deeper connection with the environment underscores his desire to step back from the fast-paced world of technology and artificial intelligence.
The tranquil ambience of the cabin provides a break from the constant technological advancements that dominate modern society, offering Duhamel and his family a chance to unwind and detach from the digital realm. His wife, Audra Mari, and their children, including 19-month-old son Shepherd and eldest son Axl from his previous marriage, find solace in the peaceful surroundings that promote a sense of unity and simplicity. Duhamel emphasises that his retreat is not solely about doomsday prepping but rather a pursuit of authenticity and a return to fundamental skills that may prove invaluable in unforeseen circumstances.
In conclusion, while Duhamel’s “doomsday cabin” may not be fully equipped to weather all calamities, his dedication to self-sufficiency and reconnecting with nature resonates with a desire shared by many to preserve essential skills and values. As society hurtles towards an increasingly technology-driven future, Duhamel’s retreat stands as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between modernity and traditional practices. In his pursuit of preparedness, Duhamel encapsulates a timeless ethos of resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.