Introduction
Trace Adkins Opens Up About Being a Grandpa, His Support for Donald Trump, and His American Ninja Warrior Experience
Country music legend Trace Adkins is known for his deep baritone voice, towering presence, and patriotic spirit. But in a candid and entertaining interview, the multi-platinum artist recently opened up about some surprising personal and political topics — from the joys of being a grandfather to his relationship with former President Donald Trump, and even his unexpected connection to American Ninja Warrior.
At 62, Trace Adkins isn’t just a country music star — he’s also a proud grandfather, and that role means more to him than any award or hit song. “Being a grandpa is the best gig I’ve ever had,” he said with a grin. He shared how his grandchildren keep him grounded and make him laugh in ways only kids can. “They don’t care that I’ve sold millions of records or that I’ve been on TV. To them, I’m just ‘Paw Paw,’ and that’s a beautiful thing.”
Despite his rough-and-tumble cowboy image, Adkins has a softer side when it comes to family. He mentioned how fatherhood shaped him, but grandparenting is different — it’s less about discipline and more about fun, patience, and passing on life lessons. “You get to enjoy all the sweet moments without having to be the bad guy,” he joked.
The interview then turned to politics, a subject Trace Adkins has never shied away from. A longtime supporter of Donald Trump, Adkins appeared on The Celebrity Apprentice in 2008 and 2013, ultimately winning the All-Star edition. His friendship with Trump grew from there, and he has performed at multiple Republican events, including Trump’s inauguration concert in 2017.
When asked about the former president, Adkins didn’t hold back. “I respect him as a businessman and as someone who says what he thinks,” Trace stated. “He gave me a chance on Apprentice, and I’ll always appreciate that.” While he acknowledged that politics is more divisive than ever, he stressed that Americans should focus on shared values and respectful dialogue.
One of the more surprising moments in the interview came when Adkins talked about his involvement with American Ninja Warrior. Though not a contestant himself, he participated in a celebrity special supporting military veterans. “I knew there was no way I was gonna climb that wall,” he laughed. “But it was for a good cause, and I always try to say yes when it involves our troops.”
Adkins has long been an advocate for veterans and active-duty military, often using his music and public appearances to raise awareness and honor their service. His performance on the Ninja Warrior platform was a fun, high-energy way to support a serious cause — and fans loved seeing this tough country crooner out of his comfort zone.
In the end, the interview painted a picture of a man who is patriotic, down-to-earth, and fiercely loyal — to his family, his country, and his values. Whether he’s rocking the stage, doting on his grandkids, or tackling obstacles (literal or political), Trace Adkins remains one of country music’s most authentic voices.