Former Sydney Swans star Buddy Franklin and his wife Jesinta recently returned to Bondi Beach with their family, enjoying a coffee and smoothies in the popular beachside suburb. Franklin, 39, was seen carrying their eight-month-old son, Bam, in a baby carrier, while Jesinta, 35, appeared makeup-free and happy during the outing.
The couple had previously retreated from the public eye several years ago, moving to Queensland and then in 2025 to a farm on the Coomera River in the Gold Coast hinterland. This move signified a return to the rural upbringing both Buddy and Jesinta experienced in their childhoods. Buddy grew up in Dowerin, Western Australia, and Jesinta spent her youth in Clagiraba on the Gold Coast.
Buddy Franklin retired from professional Australian Football League (AFL) in 2023 after a decorated career, which included 354 games, 1066 goals, four Coleman Medals, eight All-Australian selections, and premierships with Hawthorn in 2008 and 2013. Since retiring, he has spoken about finding fulfillment in his current life, stating that his post-football existence is "better for me."
Jesinta Franklin revealed last month that the couple deliberately chose a farm lifestyle for their three children—Tallulah, six, Rocky, five, and baby Bam—believing it offers the best environment for young children. "There's no better way to grow up," she previously stated.
Baby Bam, the youngest of the family, was born in December and was named after NBA player Bam Adebayo. Following his retirement, Jesinta encouraged Buddy to take a year before deciding on his next steps, leading him to embrace a significant role in daily parenting duties. He has expressed enjoyment in this new phase, noting that he spends nearly every day with his children. While Jesinta has focused on expanding her business and media commitments, Buddy has taken on the primary caregiving responsibilities.
Beyond parenting, the couple has invested in the honey brand Honey for Life and serves as ambassadors for health and wellness initiatives with insurer AIA. Despite his retirement from the sport, Franklin's connection to football remains strong, as evidenced by his participation in a charity match in his hometown of Dowerin earlier this year, which raised over $200,000 for local sporting facilities.