John Mellencamp Shares His Thoughts on Work and His Kids’ Career Choices

John Mellencamp and family.
Credit: Justice Mellencamp Instagram

Rock Icon John Mellencamp Shares Unconventional Parenting Approach

John Mellencamp, the celebrated musician, recently disclosed his unconventional parenting philosophy during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience. In a candid discussion, the 74-year-old mentioned that he tells his five children they do not need to pursue traditional work.

The iconic performer, known for hits like "Jack and Diane," is the father of three daughters—Michelle, 55, from his marriage to Priscilla Esterline; Teddi, 44, and Justice, 40, from his union with Victoria Granucci; and two sons, Hud, 31, and Speck, 30, with his current wife, Elaine Irwin.

“I’m the only father in the world that does not encourage their kids to work,” Mellencamp humorously remarked. “It’s like, what do you want to go to work for?”

Despite his nonchalant attitude towards employment, his children appear to have charted their own paths. Hud, for instance, is a Duke University graduate, and Mellencamp acknowledged, “You’re 31 years old, you could beat anybody up in the room… I think he’s getting to the age where he wants to get a job.”

Mellencamp added that having Hud live on his property has its perks. “I love having him there,” he said, noting that familial proximity makes transitions smoother, enabling quick visits whenever needed.

In another segment of the podcast, Mellencamp provided an update on his daughter Teddi, who is currently battling stage 4 cancer. He expressed concern over her condition, stating, “It’s not f—ing fun,” and elaborated on her situation, mentioning the hardship she endures due to her illness.

John Mellencamp with family.
Teddi Mellencamp Instagram

In addition, Mellencamp shared insights about his son Hud’s participation in the reality show Claim to Fame. He revealed that he initially had reservations about Hud joining the competition. “I was against it at first,” he said, expressing concern alongside Hud’s mother, Elaine Irwin.

However, Mellencamp’s perspective shifted once he viewed the show. “Once we watched the show and we watched him on the show, it was fun,” he remarked, highlighting the enjoyment it brought to the entire family.