Country music star Blake Shelton, renowned for his 'The More I Drink' persona, is reportedly grappling with a personal challenge - his battle with alcohol. Despite his public image as a carefree boozer and owning a chain of Ole Red saloons, the 47-year-old former 'The Voice' coach is said to be seriously contemplating a sober lifestyle, insiders reveal.
Sources close to Shelton suggest that his health-conscious wife, Gwen Stefani, has been a significant influence, encouraging him to consider the benefits of going cold turkey, according to Globe magazine. While Shelton has made New Year's resolutions to cut back or quit drinking, he candidly admits, "I haven't managed to stop drinking yet. Even cutting back has been hard." His struggle reflects a deeper acknowledgment of the role alcohol plays in his life and career.
Shelton, known for his casual attitude towards drinking, even during his time on 'The Voice,' once quipped, "Of course I'm drinking alcohol tonight on the show while I'm working get over it. All I do is sit in a chair and celebrate." However, as he nears the age of 50, the 'party-hearty persona' he's long embraced is reportedly starting to lose its appeal. A friend shared, "Blake says when you're a young buck there's something romantic about going out and tossing them back, getting wild and crazy. But when you see 50 creeping up on you, it's more of a sad look than anything."
Despite his reputation, Shelton is not considered an alcoholic by those close to him but recognizes that alcohol has become a crutch in his life. Stefani, who leads a predominantly vegan lifestyle and prefers hot tea to alcohol, reportedly supports Shelton's journey without pressuring him. She understands his struggle, especially given the culture surrounding his music and fanbase, which often celebrates drinking and partying.
As Shelton contemplates an alcohol-free future, he wonders how his fans and the industry would react to a sober version of himself. This internal conflict highlights the broader issue many public figures face when their personal challenges clash with their public personas. Shelton's journey is not just about personal health but also about navigating the expectations of fame and maintaining authenticity in the face of change.
Blake Shelton's Solo Tour Sparks Speculation About Marriage to Gwen Stefani
Meanwhile, Shelton's recent announcement of his 'Back to Honky Tonk Tour' has ignited a flurry of speculation among fans concerning the state of his marriage to singer Gwen Stefani. The couple, who wed in 2021, have often presented a united front, frequently collaborating professionally and sharing their personal life generously with the public. However, Shelton's upcoming solo tour, coupled with Stefani's own separate commitments, has led some to wonder if there are underlying issues in their relationship.
Shelton's tour, set to traverse the U.S. and Canada from February 22 to March 29, marks a significant time apart for the couple, with special guests Dustin Lynch and Emily Ann Roberts joining him. This announcement closely follows Stefani's revelation that they spent New Year's Eve apart, a move that surprised many of their fans. While Shelton was involved in a pre-taped segment for Nashville's Big Bash, Stefani opted for a performance in Las Vegas, explaining her decision to Access Hollywood: "If you're gonna be working, then I'm going to be working. So, I'm just gonna fly in and out. It's going to be awesome. I'm really looking forward to it."
Amid these professional commitments, the couple also enjoyed family time during the holidays, taking Stefani's children to Woodward Park City in Utah. Despite reports from The Sun describing the couple as "strained" during the trip, with Shelton reportedly sitting out many activities, the couple seemed to reconcile any differences in time for Christmas. They shared glimpses of their celebrations, including an Italian feast they prepared together, signaling a harmonious domestic life.
As Stefani's children from her previous marriage to Gavin Rossdale grow older, it may become more feasible for Shelton to undertake brief tours while continuing to be a devoted stepdad. While a five-week tour might not seem extensive, the separate paths the couple are taking professionally have raised eyebrows among their fanbase.
Despite the whispers and the close scrutiny of their relationship, both Shelton and Stefani have consistently shown a strong and supportive partnership, both on and off the stage. As two individuals with thriving careers, navigating separate projects is likely a natural progression rather than an indication of marital distress.
