Gwen Stefani’s Son Zuma Turns 17—And Fans Can’t Get Over His Resemblance to Blake Shelton
Gwen Stefani’s family just hit a major milestone—her son Zuma celebrated his 17th birthday, and fans can’t help but notice how much he looks like his stepdad, country music superstar Blake Shelton. The “Hollaback Girl” singer, 55, marked the occasion by sharing a heartfelt photo carousel on Instagram, delighting followers with rare glimpses into her family life.
A Birthday Tribute Filled With Memories and Music
On Thursday, August 21, Stefani posted a collection of photos chronicling Zuma’s life, from his earliest days to his teenage years. Among the images was a standout shot: Zuma, sporting a country-inspired mullet reminiscent of Shelton’s early-2000s look, grinning alongside his stepdad. The resemblance—right down to their hairstyles—had fans and followers doing double takes.
“Happy birthday to our sweet and talented Zuma!! We love u soooo much!! ,” Stefani captioned the post, expressing the kind of warmth and pride that has become her hallmark as a mother.
The birthday carousel also included home video clips of Zuma performing a cover of Zach Bryan’s “Dawns” on acoustic guitar, offering a peek at his growing passion for country music—a love fostered by Shelton himself.
A Stepdad’s Influence
Blake Shelton, who married Stefani in July 2021, became stepdad to Zuma, Kingston (19), and Apollo (11), whom she shares with ex-husband Gavin Rossdale, 59. Since then, Shelton has embraced the role, sharing both his Oklahoma roots and his love of country music with the boys.
In a 2024 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Shelton reflected on his approach to step-parenting:
“I get to teach them the country, you know, and I love that. Whether it’s music, whether it’s literally getting out, getting their hands in the dirt or being out on the ranch, seeing the animals, whatever—you know? I absolutely love being the person that gets to introduce them to that stuff.”
Shelton’s mentorship is clear—especially in moments like Zuma’s onstage appearance at Ole Red, Shelton’s bar in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, where Blake introduced his stepson to a crowd of country music fans. The proud stepdad was visibly beaming, underscoring the bond the two have built.
Family Ties and a New Generation of Talent
Stefani and Shelton’s blended family has often been a source of inspiration and comfort for the pop icon, who regularly highlights their close-knit dynamic. Zuma, now an aspiring country singer in his own right, is following closely in Shelton’s musical footsteps—not just in style, but in spirit.
Shelton, who has won over audiences for years with his authenticity, has also embraced the lessons that come with being a parent. “When people say it’s not about you anymore when you have a kid… I think, if you’re doing it right, it’s not about you anymore. That’s true,” he told ET, adding that he learned early on to step back and put the kids first.
As Zuma marks his 17th year, his family’s celebration—and his undeniable resemblance to Blake Shelton—reminds fans just how closely knit, and musically gifted, this modern family has become.