Josh Duhamel Opens Up About Men’s Health, Aging In Hollywood, And HRT

Josh Duhamel Talks About Taking on Physically Demanding Role in Netflix’s ‘Ransom Canyon’ and Aging in Hollywood

Josh Duhamel steps into the role of Staten Kirkland, a resilient rancher fighting to preserve his family’s land and heritage in the captivating Netflix drama series Ransom Canyon. Recognizing the physical challenges that awaited him, Duhamel embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.

During a phone interview, Duhamel delved into the six-month filming process in New Mexico, where the cast and crew grappled with harsh weather conditions and endured lengthy shooting days. Much of his time on set was spent on horseback, managing cattle. Adding to the intensity, he and his wife Audra Mari welcomed their son just three weeks before production commenced.

At 52, Duhamel candidly discussed the realities of aging in the entertainment industry while striving to excel in his professional pursuits and maintain a fulfilling family life with his two sons (including an 11-year-old from his previous marriage to Fergie).

Despite the societal leniency towards men aging, with attributes like silver hair and facial lines often being viewed as distinguished, Duhamel acknowledged the subtle pressures men face as they grow older.

“It’s an unfair double standard,” he remarked. “Men also grapple with the challenges of aging. Historically, we’ve accepted a decline in vitality with age. Personally, I aim to retain a youthful vigor and vitality for as long as possible.”

Fueled by his desire to be an attentive husband and father, Duhamel embarked on a journey of self-discovery when he noticed changes in his energy levels a few years back. Motivated to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, he explored methods to enhance his physical and mental well-being. This quest led to the creation of Gatlan, a men’s health brand centered on longevity.

“The introduction of testosterone injections revitalized me. It reignited a sense of vitality, prompting me to engage in activities I had lost interest in. It empowered me to keep up with a toddler and endure demanding workdays on set,” Duhamel shared, emphasizing that he now possesses the same vigor he had in his younger years. “Our company aims to demystify and shed light on the aging process. We’re committed to helping individuals, both men and women, enhance their lives. Currently, we’re developing a line of products tailored for women.”

When the opportunity arose to portray Staten in Ransom Canyon, Duhamel was primed for the challenge. The ten-episode western romance, helmed by showrunner April Blair, made an impressive debut on Netflix, garnering 7.2 million views and securing a spot in the Top 10 TV (English) List across 77 countries. Despite the absence of official confirmation on a second season, fans remain hopeful.

The narrative of Ransom Canyon delves into the intertwined struggles of three ranching families in Texas Hill Country as they strive to safeguard their ancestral homesteads. Staten confronts heartache, loss, and treachery, finding solace in the unwavering support of his longtime friend and love interest, Quinn O’Grady (portrayed by Minka Kelly). The stellar cast includes James Brolin, Eoin Macken, Lizzy Greene, and others.

Crediting Gatlan for enabling him to navigate the demands of his career and family life, Duhamel disclosed his journey with testosterone therapy, hair restoration treatments, and wellness medications that he initially concealed. Recognizing the potential to inspire others, he opted to share his experiences.

“This transformation has been immensely beneficial. Adopting wellness practices over the past five years has revolutionized my life, restoring my quality of life,” he affirmed, highlighting the minimal side effects and personalized approach of Gatlan’s programs. “Initially met with skepticism from my representatives, I realized the significance of destigmatizing practices that men have long engaged in, shedding light on them, and removing the taboo.”

Reflecting on his portrayal of Staten in Ransom Canyon, Duhamel acknowledged the physical demands of embodying a hardworking rancher. “While I may not have cattle or horses, I do reside in a wooded area in Minnesota. Tinkering with tractors and clearing brush is a familiar routine. I resonate deeply with Staten’s devotion to the land, driven by a desire to protect it for future generations. My home serves a similar purpose—a sanctuary for family gatherings and cherished memories to pass down through generations. It’s the most meaningful endeavor I’ve undertaken.”

Hailing from North Dakota, Duhamel’s upbringing equipped him with a profound understanding of horses and rural life. Despite the physical challenges encountered during production, he found joy in the horseback riding and cattle wrangling, describing the experience as more recreational than laborious. “I relished every moment of filming,” he enthused.

While fans eagerly anticipate news on a potential second season of Ransom Canyon, Duhamel is immersed in post-production for Preschool, a comedic film he directed in London chronicling the comedic escapades of two fathers navigating the competitive realm of high-end preschool admissions.

Before concluding our discussion, Duhamel emphasized that Gatlan’s mission extends beyond supplements, encompassing holistic approaches to nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. “Our initiative is geared towards fostering longevity and well-being. Aging need not be a swift descent. With advancements in modern medicine, individuals can look and feel their best for an extended duration. Why not leverage these resources?”