Ed Sheeran is revealing a new, ripped look after shedding 30 pounds in a dramatic fitness transformation. The singer-songwriter appeared shirtless on the cover of Men’s Health UK’s latest issue, sharing how he overhauled his lifestyle to “be a responsible dad” and feel good in his own skin.
Part of Sheeran’s health revamp included cutting back on alcohol, both for wellness and to stay alert for his daughters, Lyra, 5, and Jupiter, 3, whom he shares with wife Cherry Seaborn. “I remember Lyra was two weeks old, and I had a bottle of wine with my best mate,” he recalled. “I went to bed, and Lyra woke up 20 minutes after I’d fallen asleep. I thought, ‘F—k, I probably shouldn’t drink if I’m going to feel this dreadful.’”
The Grammy winner explained that the changes were about more than parenting. “I wanted to be able to do the night stuff. It all came at the same time: wanting to be a responsible dad, wanting to feel and look good. I didn’t want to pick my kid up and have my back f—ked.”
Sheeran also revealed the toll heavy drinking was taking on his professional life. “You’re less resilient in your thirties. I was losing my voice more. I would pull muscles in my leg, pull a muscle in my back while playing live… I wanted to feel superhuman on stage.”
The singer admitted he initially worried about appearing on the cover in peak shape, noting that fans know him as “the guy people relate to” and might find it surprising. But he embraced the moment, hoping it inspires others to start their own health journeys.
Sheeran’s 30-pound transformation took place over five years, driven by a consistent routine of weight training, reformer Pilates, and running. He also adjusted his post-show habits, swapping late-night drinks for dinner and massages in his hotel room to maintain energy and protect his voice.
“I can be led quite easily,” he said. “If I finish a gig and my mates are there, I could go out. Actually having to be in my hotel room… I get the massage and go to bed. It’s great for maintaining my voice, energy, and health.”
This is not Sheeran’s first major weight-loss journey; in 2019, he revealed he had lost 50 pounds after quitting smoking. The “Shape of You” hitmaker reflected on a decade of unhealthy living, admitting that his habits between ages 20 and 30 affected both his body and mental well-being. “I always felt like shit within myself; I’d wake up and look in the mirror and just feel gross,” he said. “Wellness is a direct mirror to mental health and the way you feel.”
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