- During a 2023 event, Blake Shelton and his stepsons caught the public’s attention. Fans were left astonished by the boys’ striking resemblance to the country star.
- The wholesome family affair superseded an interview where the country singer revealed that becoming a stepfather changed him in every possible way.
Nearly 10 years after meeting Gwen Stefani and entering his stepsons’ lives, Blake Shelton astonished fans with how similar his stepkids looked to him in appearance and style.
Explore the pictures that left social media users convinced one stepson, in particular, was Blake Shelton’s mini-me and how becoming a stepfather made the singer a better man.
Blake Shelton at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards on May 16, 2024, in Frisco, Texas. | Source: Getty Images
Embracing Parenthood: Blake Shelton’s Journey as a Stepfather
Blake’s life has changed a lot in the past decade. He attributes much of this to his relationship with Gwen. The couple’s paths crossed on the set of NBC’s “The Voice” in 2014. They were both navigating personal upheavals at that time.
Gwen was dealing with a public split from her then-husband, Gavin Rossdale. The singer had also just welcomed her third child. Blake, too, was reeling from his divorce from Miranda Lambert. However, the complex timing only made their initial connection all the more profound.
Gwen Stefani, Adam Levine, Pharrell Williams, and Blake Shelton on the set of “The Voice” on December 16, 2014. | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on their 10-year journey, Blake recalled how their lives ultimately came together. This was after the couple’s relationship was initially portrayed as falling apart by tabloids.
Despite public skepticism about their unlikely romance, Blake and Gwen’s relationship flourished. A cornerstone of this flourishment was Blake’s relationship with Gwen’s sons.
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton during a lip synch battle on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on September 17, 2014. | Source: Getty Images
The “Rich Girl” singer welcomed three boys with her ex-husband — Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo. They were the ones responsible for the reshaping of Blake’s outlook and priorities.
The singer’s transition into his role as a stepfather wasn’t immediate. It required patience, understanding, and a shift in mindset. Becoming a stepfather was also a learning process for Blake. He realized the importance of stepping back and putting the children’s needs first.
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton at an NFL game on December 27, 2015, in Glendale, Arizona. | Source: Getty Images
It was Blake’s own father ‘who shaped his parenting philosophy. The singer’s dad also embraced the role of a stepfather to Blake’s younger brother, Ritchie. This made him an inspirational figure when it came to Blake’s turn to become a step-parent.
“He took Richie on and raised him from the time he was 1 year old, and my brother never thought of my dad as anything other than his dad,” Blake reminisced during a 2024 interview. This model of pure love guided Blake. It helped him as he navigated his new family role. However, the bond between Blake and his stepsons is mutually enriching.
Blake Shelton at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards on May 16, 2024, in Frisco, Texas. | Source: Getty Images
The singer imparted lessons of country life to his stepsons. He introduced them to music, ranch activities, and the outdoors. This has broadened the boys’ horizons. Blake’s presence has given the boys a mix of country living amidst their parents’ rockstar influences.
At the same time, the boys have had a profound impact on Blake. “If I could have a repeat of these past 10 years, [that] would be perfect,” Blake expressed. This reciprocal relationship left Blake looking forward to their evolving dynamics. However, it has not been without a pang of sadness.
Blake Shelton performing at the 2023 People’s Choice Country Awards on September 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee. | Source: Getty Images
While becoming a stepfather changed Blake in every possible way, it also left him marveling at the rapid passage of time as his eldest stepson approached adulthood. However, the country singer found relief in the fact that the nest would empty in phases.
In June 2024, Gwen took to Instagram to celebrate Blake in honor of Father’s Day, highlighting the deep appreciation the singer and her sons had for the country star. “and a very happy Father’s Day to @blakeshelton 🤍 we love u so much !!” the caption of the heartfelt tribute read.
Following in His Stepfather’s Footsteps
In August 2023, Blake’s eldest stepson proved that musical talent ran deep in the family. Kingston, then 17 years old, made his live music debut at Ole Red, Blake’s restaurant and bar.
The surprise performance was a memorable event. It marked a significant milestone in Kingston’s budding music career. The night began with Blake performing a free acoustic set, delighting the audience with his signature country tunes.
However, the highlight of the evening came when Blake introduced Kingston as a special guest. “I’m very excited, actually honored, to be the first one to introduce this guy to the stage for the very first time ever,” Blake announced.
“This guy’s an artist, he’s the real deal and you guys are going to be able to say that you were there at his very first-ever public performance,” Blake continued. His introduction was met with enthusiastic applause.
Blake Shelton at a press conference to celebrate the grand opening of Ole Red restaurant and bar on September 30, 2017, in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. | Source: Getty Images
Kingston took the stage, dressed casually in a long gray T-shirt and blue jeans. The young artist captivated the audience with a couple of rock ballads. His performance was reminiscent of the grunge style popularized by his father’s band, Bush.
The night was made even more special with Gwen watching proudly. She later joined her husband on stage. Kingston James McGregor Rossdale was born in May 2006. His arrival fulfilled his mother’s long-held dream of becoming a mom.
Gwen Stefani spotted with her son Kingston Rossdale on December 6, 2006, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Gwen embraced motherhood wholeheartedly. She called it “the most amazing thing that’s ever happened to me.” This was despite initial fears about balancing motherhood with her career.
Blake’s eldest stepson grew up immersed in a world of music. He even joined his mother on a 120-show world tour when he was just nine months old. As Kingston matured, his passion for music deepened.
Gwen Stefani spotted with her son Kingston Rossdale in New York on September 11, 2006. | Source: Getty Images
His father nurtured these interests. Gavin did so by introducing him to legendary punk rock bands like Gang of Four and the Sex Pistols. This eclectic musical upbringing, combined with the influences of his mother and stepfather, shaped Kingston into a versatile artist with a unique style.
Gavin Rossdale and Gwen Stefani photographed out in New York City with their son Kingston Rossdale on September 12, 2006. | Source: Getty Images
The Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony and Resemblance Revelations
On October 19, 2023, Gwen received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This was a momentous occasion celebrated alongside her husband and children. The event was filled with emotion and pride. This was especially true during Blake’s heartfelt speech honoring his wife.
The country singer reminisced about his first impression of his future wife. He noted how she stood out from other celebrities by arriving on the set of “The Voice” with her children rather than an entourage of security.
“That was her number one job,” he said, highlighting Gwen’s dedication to motherhood above all else. Close to a decade after their first meeting, Gwen’s role as a mother remains paramount. This was a sentiment that brought tears of joy to her eyes as Blake praised her achievements.
“Today, it’s nice to see her honored for her side project, which is being one of the biggest stars in the world. In my opinion, Gwen is the perfect person to receive a star on the Walk of Fame,” Blake remarked. His words resonated with fans who admired his adoration for his wife.
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani onstage during the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star ceremony honoring Stefani on October 19, 2023, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Blake’s speech was a highlight. But, something else stole the public’s attention. Fans couldn’t help but notice the striking resemblances between Gwen Stefani’s sons and their stepfather.
Observant social media users noted that the “Hollaback Girl” singer’s middle son, Zuma, looked “completely” like Blake. They added that the pair even shared the same dimples. Fans noticed the resemblance in Apollo too, with one fan commenting, “Her youngest is like daddy Blake.”
Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo Rossdale at the star ceremony where their mother was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on October 19, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Social media users further pointed out how Apollo was dressed similarly to Blake. They both jeans and a black suit jacket. Kingston and Zuma, dressed in sharp black suits, stood proudly beside their mother and stepfather.
The fans’ comments added a layer of warmth to the occasion. “So handsome,” many said, admiring the boys’ dapper appearances. The sentiment that Apollo looked like a “mini Blake” was echoed by several fans. Others also delighted in the familial resemblance and shared style.
Blake Shelton’s journey as a stepfather is highlighted by the deep bond he has formed with his stepsons. From supporting Kingston’s musical debut to sharing proud moments at Gwen’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, Blake’s dedication and love for Gwen’s children are evident.