LAS VEGAS — A new western saga is taking Netflix by storm. Ransom Canyon, starring the duo of Josh Duhamel and Minka Kelly, shows how passions run deep in a small Texas town. The show's creators are telling the story of three ranching dynasties fighting for their land, their legacies, and the people they love. Entertainment correspondent Rachel Smith joined ARC Las Vegas and Evan Schreiber to share the exclusive interview with the two superstar actors, talking about their Las Vegas connection.
Premiering on Thursday, April 17, 2025, Ransom Canyon is based on Jodi Thomas' book series and is set in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. The narrative revolves around Josh Duhamel’s character, Staten Kirkland, who is grappling with two significant losses while navigating his undeniable connection to childhood friend Quinn, played by Minka Kelly. Adding complexity to the story, Staten finds himself in a love triangle with Davis, portrayed by Eoin Macken.
In a twist of fate, Duhamel's wife, Audra Mari, made a cameo appearance in the series, but neither of them knew that her scene had been cut until they watched the show together. "My wife was on the show too. Yeah, she did a cameo," Duhamel shared with People. "She was Davis’ girlfriend that he brought to the party, but they cut her out! Poor thing." Duhamel recounted how Mari, 31, underwent extensive hair and makeup for her role, only to find out that her appearance was ultimately left on the cutting room floor.
Despite the disappointment, Mari celebrated her husband's new project on Instagram, revealing their journey to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where they lived for six months while he filmed Ransom Canyon. "Not many of you know this, but two weeks after our sweet Shepherd was born, we packed up and moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico for six months. Josh was set to start filming Ransom Canyon and today it comes out on Netflix," she wrote.
Audra Mari also opened up about the challenges of relocating for Duhamel's work, stating, "I’m often asked how we do it, how we pick up and find a home away from home so swiftly and without a thought. Truth is, it’s not always easy. But this team and family that Josh picked up along the way while filming this beautiful show made it that much easier." She expressed her affection for the show, saying, "You’ll always have a special place in my heart RC as I became a brand new mama watching you become a cowboy. We love you Staten Kirkland aka ‘dada.’"
Before marrying Mari, Duhamel was previously married to singer Fergie. The couple tied the knot in 2009 and welcomed their son, Axl, in 2013. However, their marriage faced challenges, leading to their separation four years after Axl's birth, with their divorce finalized in 2019. Duhamel has since found happiness with Mari, and the two dated for two years before getting engaged in January 2022. Duhamel described his spontaneous proposal, stating, "I just sort of decided last-minute that was how I wanted to do it. I didn’t have anything planned. I didn’t have a ring yet. I was like, ‘OK, you’re gonna do this today. Today’s the day.’"
The couple welcomed their son, Shepherd, in January 2024, marking a new chapter in their lives. Duhamel has also shared insights into his relationship with Axl and how he balances parenting. "He is very excited about our engagement. That was a big part of it. They get along great. It’s been good," Duhamel told Us Weekly in January 2022.
As Ransom Canyon continues to gain traction on Netflix, the chemistry between Duhamel and Kelly, alongside the compelling storyline of love and loss, captivates audiences. The series taps into the emotional depths of its characters, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of ranching families in Texas.
The show has garnered attention not just for its plot but also for its stunning visuals of the Texas landscape, which plays a critical role in the storytelling. The picturesque settings serve as a backdrop to the intense emotional conflicts that unfold, making it a visual treat for viewers.
In reflecting on the show's themes, Duhamel commented on the importance of family and legacy, saying, "At the heart of Ransom Canyon is a story about connection—how the ties that bind us can also tear us apart. It’s a journey of self-discovery and understanding what really matters in life."
As fans dive into this new series, they can expect a blend of drama, romance, and the rugged charm of the American West. With its compelling characters and intricate storylines, Ransom Canyon is poised to leave a lasting impact on its audience.
In conclusion, the excitement surrounding Ransom Canyon reflects not only the allure of its star-studded cast but also the timeless themes of love, loss, and resilience that resonate with viewers everywhere. As the series unfolds, audiences will undoubtedly find themselves drawn into the emotional landscape of this captivating tale.
