Rod Stewart embraces model railways after years of hiding his passion

In an exclusive interview with Railway Modeller magazine, Sir Rod Stewart has opened up about a significant aspect of his life that he has kept private for years. The renowned musician, who is currently 79 years old, has revealed that he spends a considerable amount of his free time delving into his hobby of model railways. Previously feeling ashamed that his passion might contradict his rock star persona, he has come to a point of pride where he expresses joy in sharing this hobby with others. His diorama, known as the Grand Street & Three Rivers Railroad, is crafted meticulously, featuring an array of scale buildings, trees, and an extensive 900 feet of track equipped with numerous operational trains. Stewart indicates that he invests approximately four to five hours each day in his workshop where he constructs and enjoys working on his model railway setup, which he describes as a sanctuary of relaxation and creativity. The model railway has transformed into a second life for Stewart, who states that music remains his primary career focus, but the railway work has evidently become an essential part of his day-to-day routine. His entire setup was moved from Los Angeles to his home in Essex, England, which substantiates his dedication and commitment to this endeavor. He also collaborates with professional modelmaker Paul Wells to enhance his project with even more realistic features, such as lighting and sound effects, including plans for thunder and lightning in his models. Stewart's collection is highly personalized and unique; he prides himself on the originality of his constructions, with most buildings being scratch-built or modified from kits. Despite previous hesitations about revealing his hobby, Stewart asserts that he no longer feels embarrassed. He realizes the joy that this creative outlet brings him, likening his workshop experience to “entering the gates of heaven.” This change in attitude towards showcasing his fondness for model railways reflects a broader trend among public figures, who increasingly strive for authenticity and transparency in their personal interests, irrespective of societal expectations. Stewart's passion is shared with others; he actively engages with fellow enthusiasts, including musician Jools Holland, with whom he often trades models and crafts. The camaraderie within this community further enhances his experience and fosters connections beyond his musical career. This newfound openness about his hobby encourages others to embrace their passions without fear of judgment, showcasing that even rock legends can take great pleasure in what might traditionally be viewed as a more subdued past-time.