Josh Duhamel may have graced the silver screen in "Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!," but in real life, romance with Audra Mari was the furthest thing from his mind—initially, at least. In a recent confession on the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast, the actor unveiled how their bond began in the least romantic manner conceivable: as platonic compatriots from North Dakota.
"For years, it was purely platonic," Josh revealed in the May 14th episode, emphasizing that he never foresaw their friendship blossoming into romance. He recalled thinking to himself, "'I’m not even going to venture into that territory,'" convinced that Audra was "too young" for him.
Fast forward a bit, and the narrative took an unexpected twist—over a simple barbecue gathering. Josh invited Audra to a casual catch-up, still viewing her solely as a friend. But when they finally met face-to-face, sparks flew, or at least, perspectives shifted.
"She’s more mature than I am," Josh conceded to host Amanda Hirsch. And just like that, the ambiance transformed, giving rise to a new love story, one that simmered over backyard hangouts.
The duo embarked on their romantic journey in late 2018, and Josh swiftly realized that Audra was the real deal. "We’re perfect for each other," he told E! News in 2022. "She’s an incredible girl. She keeps me grounded and real." Evidently, their conversations extended beyond barbecue sauce and small talk—Audra truly was "the one."
In September 2022, the couple made their love official back in their hometown of North Dakota, tying the knot in the most fitting manner for two proud natives. Nearly two years later, they welcomed their son Shepherd, who joined Josh’s firstborn, 11-year-old Axl, from his previous marriage to Fergie.
Thus, the tale of Josh and Audra unfolds, a love story that began as an unromantic friendship but blossomed into a deep and enduring bond, punctuated by the arrival of their beloved son.
