Mike Parr Opens Up About Fatherhood and the Impact on His Life Ahead of First Child

Emmerdale star Mike Parr, best known for playing the brooding Ross Barton, is opening up about how his life has dramatically shifted as he prepares for the biggest role of his life — fatherhood. In a heartfelt interview, Parr shares how settling down with his long-term partner Isabelle Du Plessis has changed his outlook and lifestyle in unexpected ways.

A New Chapter: From Nightclubs to Dad Mode

Mike, who is expecting his first child with Isabelle, admits that fatherhood wasn’t always part of his plan. “I’m really excited,” Parr says, noting how this new chapter has turned his life upside down. “It’s been very refreshing, but there’s been lots of baby talk around me. I didn’t realise it would happen as quickly as it did.”

Reflecting on his earlier years in Emmerdale, Parr remembers a time when his focus was more on nightlife and after-work pints than the quiet routine of preparing for fatherhood. “I was 26 when I first got the job and before it used to be about the nightclubs and going out for pints after work,” he recalls. “Now I’m entering dad mode. I like my tea and early nights.”

A Surprising Sense of Gratitude

The couple, who only went public with their relationship in early 2024, are now embracing their “Mum and Dad era.” Parr admits that the announcement has deeply affected him, revealing that once Isabelle shared the news, his whole outlook on life changed. “It’s made me realise what’s actually important to me. I feel ready for it. We’re so grateful,” Parr shares.

Though many people struggle in the transition to parenthood, Parr says it has come naturally for him and Isabelle, with the couple finding joy in the anticipation of welcoming their child.

An Irony for Ross: New Life, Old Drama

As Parr prepares for fatherhood in real life, his Emmerdale character, Ross Barton, is embroiled in his own pregnancy drama. Charity Dingle’s shock pregnancy has fans buzzing, with the twist revealing that Ross could be the father. Parr finds the storyline ironic, noting how similar his character’s situation is to his own. “How ironic that there’s this storyline going on and I have one on the way,” he says with a smile.

Ross, never one to shy away from a challenge, isn’t thrilled about the idea of fatherhood again. “He knows that Charity is a bit of a lying scoundrel, as is he,” Parr reflects. “He just wants confirmation. Is this his child or not?”

Charity’s pregnancy comes with its own complications, as she already co-parents her son Moses with Ross. However, Parr questions if Ross is truly ready for another child. “Does he want to have a child? Is he loving being around Moses, or is he going to be against the idea?” Parr wonders, suggesting that Ross might not step up for this new addition to the family.

Romantic Fallout and Strained Relationships

The potential for drama doesn’t stop with Ross’ fatherhood. His already-tense relationships with other characters in the village are on the line, starting with Mackenzie Boyd and Moira Dingle. “I can’t see Ross and Mack being best friends after that,” Parr says. “It’s probably going to cause more trouble with Moira as well. They’re not technically blood related, it’s all built around friendship and trust. With that gone, they might not have any real ties, just people with the same second name.”

There’s also the issue of Ross’ love life. Things with Steph are on shaky ground after Ross’ brief involvement with Manpreet Sharma. Parr is clear on Ross’ feelings: “It’s Steph that he wants. But it’s not going to pan out so well when she finds out.”

Looking Forward to the Future

As Parr steps into fatherhood and navigates the complex dynamics on Emmerdale, fans can look forward to more emotional layers being added to his character. In the meantime, Parr is embracing his own journey, cherishing the upcoming arrival of his child and the new chapter in his life with Isabelle.