For Emmerdale star Michael Parr, life is about to change in a big way. The actor, best known for his role as the notorious Ross Barton on the ITV soap, is preparing to welcome his first child with his girlfriend, Isabelle Du Plessis. This major life event has prompted a significant lifestyle shift for the 38-year-old, who admitted that he never truly saw himself settling down.
In a candid interview with The Mirror, Michael reflected on his past compared to his new reality. “I was 26 when I first got the job,” he said, “and before it used to be about the nightclubs and going out for pints after work. Now I’m entering dad mode. I like my tea and early nights.”
The actor revealed that the news of Isabelle’s pregnancy had an instant and profound effect on his perspective. “Once Izzy told me, my whole outlook on life changed,” he shared. “It’s made me realise what’s actually important to me.”
A Growing Family
The couple first announced their exciting news back in May through a series of heartfelt photos shared on Isabelle’s Instagram. The pictures captured the pair cuddling up, with Isabelle radiating joy in a red floral gown that beautifully showcased her growing baby bump. Michael looked equally thrilled, posing with his hand gently placed on his girlfriend’s stomach. The couple’s smiles in the photos confirmed their excitement about their expanding family.
While they have kept the baby’s due date and gender under wraps, Isabelle’s caption, “In our Mum & Dad Era,” was a sweet way to let their followers in on their new chapter. The couple has been together for a while, with Michael first revealing in October that he was in a new relationship, though he initially kept Isabelle’s identity private. At the time, he told The Mirror, “I’m in a very happy relationship. She’s amazing and has been very supportive.”
Michael’s relationship with Isabelle comes after his previous partnership with his Emmerdale co-star Isabel Hodgins, who plays Victoria Sugden. The two parted ways in 2019, and Michael has clearly found happiness and stability with Isabelle as they prepare for parenthood.
The Return of Ross Barton
While Michael is about to embrace the most important role of his life, his professional life has also seen a dramatic return to form. After a five-year absence, he recently reprised his role as Ross Barton on Emmerdale. Michael had originally played the fan-favorite character from 2013 to 2018.
Known for his complex and charismatic portrayal of the villain, Michael quickly became a standout star on the show. Ross’s original departure followed a devastating acid attack that left him battling with depression, a storyline that captivated and shocked viewers. After leaving the soap in 2018, Michael admitted he felt “bored” just two months later due to a lack of work. His return to the show at the end of 2024 was highly anticipated by fans.
Of his comeback, Michael shared his enthusiasm, saying, “I’m over the moon to be returning to Emmerdale. Ross is a character I’m extremely fond of and I’m excited to explore what he’s been up to over the past five years.” He hinted that Ross’s return would bring fireworks, promising that fans “can’t wait to see what’s in store.”
The return of Ross Barton, combined with the exciting news of his impending fatherhood, marks a monumental period of change for Michael Parr. He is not only stepping back into the shoes of one of Emmerdale’s most iconic characters but also into the life-changing role of a father.
