Josh Duhamel Says He Would Live in Minnesota Cabin ‘All Year Round’ If He Could: ‘It’s a Special Place’

**Josh Duhamel Shares Joys of Rural Life with Family in the Midwest**

Actor Josh Duhamel, renowned for his role in the show “Preschool,” has recently opened up about his lifestyle in rural Minnesota, where he enjoys quality family time with his wife Audra Mari and their two sons, Axl and Shepherd. Speaking in an interview with Extra TV, Duhamel shared insights into his idyllic life in the Midwest, reflecting on his love for the region and the vibrant activities his family engages in together.

Duhamel, 53, expressed his fondness for Minnesota, suggesting that he would happily reside there all year if not for the demands of his career. “I truly could live out there all year round if it weren’t for work,” he stated. The family divides their time between North Dakota, where they live, and a cabin across the border in Minnesota. This is where his two boys, aged 12 and 2, enjoy various outdoor pursuits, including swimming, jet skiing, and skiing.

“The kids are just exploring and soaking up the environment,” Duhamel remarked enthusiastically, highlighting the enriching experiences his children gain from their rural lifestyle. “It’s a pretty special place,” he added, reflecting on the natural beauty surrounding them, characterised by the state’s famous lakes and dense woodlands.

While Duhamel balances his Hollywood commitments, he emphasised the importance of returning to nature and the lessons it offers. In a previous conversation with PEOPLE, the actor revealed a “calling” to reconnect with his roots. “I make movies and TV shows, and I love it, but I had this calling to go and really do things with my hands again,” he shared, expressing a desire to engage more with traditional skills.

The actor’s affinity for the land is evident in his personal projects. More than a decade ago, Duhamel purchased a vacant parcel of land in rural North Dakota, where he has gradually built a rustic cabin, affectionately referred to as his “doomsday cabin.” This project was not merely about constructing a building; it was a return to basics that resonates deeply with him. “I’m really more of a guy who wants to stay true to my roots, get back to the basics,” he explained.

He elaborated on the joys of rural living, recounting the wildlife that shares their space. “There are bald eagles everywhere, and otters swimming with their little babies. It’s just beautiful out there,” he noted, painting a vivid picture of their nature-filled surroundings. However, Duhamel was quick to mention the less glamorous aspects of rural life, such as the ongoing battle against uninvited guests. “We are constantly fighting the mice from getting into the cabins,” he said with a chuckle, acknowledging the challenges of living closely with nature.

As a father, Duhamel is committed to providing his children with a rich, hands-on upbringing that connects them to the environment. “They get a taste of Los Angeles, but back at home, they get to enjoy the woods,” he explained. This balance between urban and rural life allows his sons to experience the excitement of city life while also fostering an appreciation for the great outdoors.

The actor is not only dedicated to fatherhood and family adventures, but he is also excited about the prospect of becoming a girl dad, as he and Mari are expecting a daughter. “I don’t know what to make of it, but I cannot wait to meet her,” Duhamel said, revealing his joyous anticipation for this new chapter in their family life.

Ultimately, Duhamel’s reflections serve as a reminder of the value of stepping away from the fast-paced world of fame and reconnecting with nature and family. His commitment to his roots and desire for a more grounded lifestyle shine through his words, showcasing a side of the actor that resonates with many who yearn for simplicity amidst the complexities of modern life.