Gavin Rossdale Balances Rock Star Life with Fatherhood Through Food and Conversation
Gavin Rossdale, the iconic frontman of the rock band Bush, is navigating the complexities of parenthood with a creative blend of culinary artistry and open communication. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Rossdale shared insights into his decision to launch his new cooking show, "Dinner With Gavin Rossdale," revealing it’s more than just a foray into the culinary world; it’s a strategic move to be a more present and engaged father to his four children. Rossdale co-parents his three sons – Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo – with ex-wife Gwen Stefani, and also has an older daughter, Daisy Lowe, with Pearl Lowe.
Rossdale candidly admitted that the inspiration behind his new venture stemmed from a desire to minimize travel and maximize his time at home with his sons. He explained, "My show came about because of a combination of things. I really wanted to stay home and not have to travel. You know, I live with my three boys half the time, so I didn’t want to always travel to buy them dinner." This reveals a relatable struggle for many working parents, particularly those in demanding industries like music. Recognizing the impracticality of constantly leaving home to fulfill even basic parental duties, Rossdale sought a career path that allowed him to remain grounded in his Hollywood Hills home. “Rossdale admitted he thought that was crazy so hes got to try and have a job you can just do from home.”
Beyond the logistical benefits of a home-based career, Rossdale also emphasized a deeper, more personal motivation behind “Dinner With Gavin Rossdale.” The rock star confessed that he felt a lack of personal expression beyond his musical endeavors. "I just felt like, you know, I have a profile, I have a band. I’ve had a lot of success but not much voice. So I thought, why not go out in some kind of glory and be yourself and sort of have your own voice? Because I felt like I was bizarrely voiceless unless I was singing a song," he explained. This statement offers a glimpse into Rossdale’s desire to connect with audiences on a more authentic level, showcasing his personality and engaging in meaningful conversations outside the confines of his established musical persona. The show, in essence, serves as a platform for him to explore his identity and share his perspectives on a wider range of topics.
The interview also touched upon Rossdale’s perspective on his children pursuing careers in music. He expressed a sense of trepidation, admitting to being "terrified" at the prospect. While his eldest daughter, Daisy, is involved in fashion consulting, his sons Kingston and Zuma have demonstrated a natural aptitude and passion for music. Rossdale humorously acknowledged their growing talent, noting, "I’m not even sure if I’m still the best guitar player in the house. It’s kind of annoying to be honest, they are really good, and they’re just getting better all the time, and they seem to have more time to practice than I do, and they’re just so into it."
His fear, however, stems from the evolving and often unpredictable nature of the music industry. He confessed, "I’m terrified for them because I don’t really know what that means to have a career in music anymore, and I find it really confusing, and I’ve been in it for a long time." This highlights the challenges faced by established artists in guiding the next generation, particularly in a landscape drastically different from the one they navigated at the start of their careers. Despite his concerns, Rossdale understands the importance of encouraging his children to pursue their passions, emphasizing that youth is a time for taking risks and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. "I should, as an adult, be looking and going, ‘Your choices are crazy. They’re not based in reality.’ But no, that’s not my job. My job is to sort of encourage them to go out into the world, be independent and be strong and get themselves out there," he stated.
Rossdale shared a heartwarming anecdote about his youngest son, Apollo, highlighting the joy he experiences in witnessing his children embrace their creative pursuits. He recounted how Apollo often sits down while his dad cooks dinner and passionately belts out five songs, describing the experience as "really, really incredible."
When asked about the secrets to successful co-parenting, Rossdale offered a humorous but telling response, suggesting anyone with the answer should "call me." This candid remark acknowledges the inherent challenges and complexities of navigating co-parenting relationships, particularly in the public eye.
"Dinner With Gavin Rossdale," which premiered on VIZIO on February 13th, offers viewers a glimpse into Rossdale’s life as he combines his love for cooking with his ability to connect with others. Set in his Los Angeles home, the show features A-list guests such as Serena Williams, Common, and Selma Blair, who join Rossdale at his table for engaging conversations and a three-course meal personally prepared by the host.
The show’s format allows for a more intimate and revealing portrait of Rossdale, showcasing his culinary skills and his talent for fostering meaningful dialogue. One particularly memorable guest was Brooke Shields, whose intelligence and wit profoundly impressed Rossdale. "She’s incredibly smart. I didn’t go in there thinking she wasn’t incredibly smart. But when you interact with someone, it’s whip-smart. It’s all in the timing. It’s all in the joke. She’s very present and for the most famous person in the world, she is incredibly approachable, and I love that," he remarked.
"Dinner With Gavin Rossdale" is available for streaming on VIZIO’s free streaming service, WatchFree+. Through this project, Rossdale has successfully created a platform that allows him to balance his career aspirations with his commitment to being a present and supportive father, while also offering viewers a unique and engaging entertainment experience. He is simultaneously redefining his public persona, showcasing his diverse talents, and embracing the joys and challenges of modern fatherhood. The show is not just about cooking; it’s about connection, conversation, and the ongoing evolution of a rock star turned culinary conversationalist.
