Fans are doing a double-take over Josh Homme's dramatic transformation, with the Queens of the Stone Age frontman being hailed as an 'internet boyfriend' during the band's current US stadium tour with the Foo Fighters.
The 53-year-old rocker has been performing across the US this summer, fresh off the European legs of the joint tour. While the two iconic bands have been delivering their catalogue of hits, it's Homme's appearance that has captured fans' attention, particularly since the tour started last week.
With a new hairdo, a leaner frame, and his classic rugged rocker appeal, Homme has become the subject of widespread social media admiration, with many describing him as a 'thirst trap'.
Fans react to Homme's transformation
On Instagram, fans have been vocal in their praise. User Jamilahmoniique commented on a video of Homme jamming on stage: 'He's aged the best out of anyone i have ever seen ever ngl.' Another user, Caseydtraveler, confessed: 'How many times did you watch this? Yes,' while Zlazena6 joked: 'Why is this video 4 hours long?'
Elizmose declared: 'Homme is the perfect last name for him cuz he is a fine specimen of a MAN!' Lacaroaparicio said the singer was ageing 'like a fine wine,' and Oaklandartist claimed: 'He's on that Rick Springfield aging [sic] plan,' referencing the Zoot frontman known for his youthful looks.
Behind the glow-up: health struggles and recovery
Homme's transformation follows a series of health issues. In 2023, he revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer the previous year and had undergone successful surgery to remove it, though he did not specify the type of cancer. Speaking to Revolver magazine at the time, Homme said: 'I never say it can't get any worse. I never say that, and I wouldn't advise it. But I do say it can get better.'
He added: 'Cancer is just the cherry on top of an interesting time period, you know? I'm extremely thankful that I'll get through this, and I'll look back at this as something that's f****d up — but will have made me better. I'm cool with that. There's a lot of stuff I want to do. And there's a lot of people I want to do that with.'
In 2024, Queens of the Stone Age cancelled their tour so Homme could receive 'essential medical care.' He later revealed he was bedbound for seven months during the ordeal, telling Consequence of Sound: 'I had a lot of time to think, you know? I was told I was gonna spend 18 months, two years there, so I was not excited.'
New mindset and lifestyle changes
Homme has attributed his healthier lifestyle to cutting back on vices, telling ABC.net.au earlier this year: 'You have to be honest about what you're feeling and going through, whether that's physical or mental. And look at those moments of understanding as a real gift and a chance to move forward through this life in a positive way.'
Now, as the tour continues, fans have claimed that Homme looks 'better than ever,' with his transformation becoming a talking point alongside the music.
