Global music superstar Ed Sheeran has stunned fans by revealing a dramatically transformed, muscular physique in a recent shirtless photoshoot, alongside opening up about the powerful life changes that fueled his fitness journey.
From "Pizza-Eating" Lifestyle to Fatherhood Wake-Up Call
The 34-year-old singer-songwriter candidly admitted to Men’s Health UK that he lived what he describes as an unhealthy life throughout his twenties. Sheeran confessed that, at heart, he is a "pizza-eating, beer-guzzling smoker." However, a pivotal moment arrived with the birth of his first child, Lyra.
He shared a powerful story of a night shortly after Lyra was born. "I remember Lyra was two weeks old and I had my best mate round and we had a bottle of wine," Sheeran explained. After going to bed, his daughter woke him just 20 minutes later. The feeling was a turning point: "I woke up and I was like, ‘F*ck, I probably shouldn’t drink if I’m going to feel this dreadful.’ I want to be able to do the night stuff."
The Drive to Become a "Responsible Dad" and Superhuman Performer
This incident crystallized several motivations for the "Shape of You" hitmaker. His desire to be a present and capable father merged with personal and professional goals.
"It all came in at the same time of wanting to be a responsible dad, wanting to feel and look good," Sheeran stated. "I didn’t want to pick my kid up and have my back f****d and stuff like that. And then also that feeds into professional life…I wanted to feel superhuman on stage."
Building Sustainable Habits in His Thirties
Sheeran's transformation wasn't about extreme deprivation but about building better, sustainable habits. He revealed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, he pushed his physical limits, going from never running more than a kilometre to completing his first 10K run.
"I think, underneath it all, I am a pizza-eating, beer-guzzling smoker, but that’s just not my reality as a parent in my thirties," he reflected. "I think that you have to make good decisions."
He emphasizes balance, stating he still enjoys life's pleasures but with more moderation. "I’m not saying I’m done with enjoying myself, I still drink. I love red wine, I love a nice meal, but it’s not every day," the singer concluded, framing his new ripped physique as a symbol of this mature, health-conscious chapter dedicated to his family and career.
