Viral Runaway Sheep Named Brad Is Now a Dad

CARLTON, Minn. — Last November, we brought you the story of Brad—the runaway sheep turned local celebrity. Now, we’re back on the farm in Carlton with to check in on Brad’s latest chapter.

It’s been nearly six months to the day since Brad’s great escape—and even greater homecoming.

Now back at Golden Hour Acres, Brad is living the good life—lowkey, well-fed, and staying out of trouble.

“Brad settled right back in, and he’s happy to just be here. He hasn’t done anything crazy,” said Farmer Ryan Osvold.

But Brad hasn’t just been lounging—he’s been busy. Very busy.

“Obviously, Brad was able to do his job when he got back. And he has five new ones out there—two sets of twins and one single,” Ryan stated.

Springtime on the farm also means shearing season. Brad’s wool is now part of a line of handmade farm products that are supporting Golden Hour Acres in more ways than one.

“So we’re gonna have plenty of products—with socks that we’ve already done a couple of years ago, and mittens that we’re gonna redo. Yarn for knitting that’s 100% Icelandic,” said Ryan.

Brad’s viral tale didn’t just warm hearts—it helped grow Golden Hour Acres’ social media following from 40 to nearly 1,800.

“We’ve had followers as far as Australia. She actually bought socks, and I sent them to her. We sent socks all over the country, actually, after the whole Brad deal.”

For Ryan Osvold, the unexpected fame has brought something deeper than attention—it’s brought direction.

“We just want to get younger people involved. It’s pretty sad, but this country loses tens of thousands of farms a year—and we really do need them,” Ryan continued, “It’s actually done a lot of wonders for our land out here that has been in agriculture for years but wasn’t used for it for probably a couple of decades.”

He further explained, “It’s an adventure, and it’s hard—but it’s well worth it. Leads you to some pretty interesting spots, as a lot of people followed along with one of ours.”

Brad’s inspiring story is now the subject of children’s books written by local authors.

“I mean, that’s amazing—to grab a story like this, and actually put it on paper, and get to do what they love, and help share what we love to do,” Ryan stated.

From runaway to role model, Brad the sheep is leaving a hoofprint on his community—and on the next generation of farmers. For now, he’s back in the pasture, sheared for summer, and settling in just fine.

You can follow Brad’s journey and shop farm-made wool products at @golden_hour_acres.

As mentioned, many locals took creative inspiration from Brad’s story—including Fox 21’s Maria Vollom, who turned his wild adventure into a whimsical children’s book, The Great Sheep Escape: Brad’s Big Adventure.

The book is launching this Friday, May 23, at Duluth’s Best Bread from 6-8 pm.

Plus, hear more from Maria and Farmer Ryan live on the morning newscast Wednesday, May 19.