From Glitterball Dreams to Building Dreams: Eric Roberts Embraces New Horizons
The glitz and glamour of the ballroom may be behind him, but Virgin Media star Eric Roberts is buzzing with a different kind of excitement – the thrill of building his first family home. Having recently participated in Dancing With The Stars, Roberts, a familiar face from TikTok, has now turned his attention to a more grounded, yet equally significant, project in his native Donegal.
Roberts, who narrowly missed out on the coveted glitterball trophy to Katelyn Cummins earlier this month, found the demanding schedule of the popular television show had consumed a substantial portion of his time. However, with the competition concluded, the star is eagerly anticipating the next chapter, which involves a significant undertaking in his home county.
A New Chapter in Donegal
The picturesque landscapes of Donegal are set to become the backdrop for Roberts’ most personal project yet. He and his wife, Niamh, are embarking on the journey of constructing their very first family home. The process, while potentially daunting, is being met with infectious enthusiasm by the couple.
“I’m heading up to Donegal on Sunday for the week,” Roberts shared, detailing the current stage of the build. “We’re meeting the electrician, we’re talking to kitchen companies. So it’s all bundled up now, and most decisions have to be made at the one time. We’re excited. We’re not looking at it like a headache or anything. We’re really excited.” This forward-thinking approach suggests a desire to savour the experience rather than be overwhelmed by it.
* Eric and his wife Niamh are building their first family home in Eric’s native Donegal.
Navigating the Commute: Work and Home Balance
Roberts’ popularity with viewers of Weekend AM presents an interesting logistical challenge. With the television studios located in Ballymount, the prospect of a weekly commute from Donegal to Dublin will be a significant consideration.
“The contract was for a year, originally, but I love the job, and I can’t see me stopping it anytime soon,” Roberts explained regarding his role on Weekend AM. “So, it might be a commute for the weekends, or I might look at getting a place up here (in Dublin) and having a base up here.” This suggests a flexible approach to his work commitments, prioritising both his career and his growing family life.
He also indicated that the transition into their new home might not be immediate. “It might be a case of when the house is ready, we won’t move in right away. We’ll just take our time furnishing it and getting it ready. It won’t be a panic,” he added, highlighting a measured and thoughtful approach to settling into their new abode.
A Grateful Heart for the Ballroom Experience
Despite not clinching the top prize on Dancing With The Stars, Roberts harbours no regrets and expressed genuine happiness for the winner, Katelyn Cummins. “I was honestly delighted for her,” he stated. “I had so much fun doing that show, and it was such a life-changing, incredible experience. But I am genuinely, genuinely happy for her. She’s an incredible career, the story behind what she was trying to do and the awareness that she was trying to raise – for me, I would have voted for myself.”
Roberts emphasised the profound impact the show has had on him. “I wouldn’t have changed anything about the experience, start to finish, and I’m so incredibly grateful for everyone that did vote for me.” He noted that the show had significantly broadened his reach, introducing him to a new audience. “I feel like I am getting recognised quite a bit now when I’m out, which is lovely.”
* The star is looking forward to his new challenge after Dancing With The Stars.
Championing a Cause: AsIAm’s Same Chance Walk
Beyond his television commitments and personal projects, Eric Roberts is also lending his voice and support to a vital cause. He was recently present at the launch of AsIAm’s Same Chance Walk for Autism, an initiative taking place during World Autism Month in April. This event aims to unite communities across Ireland in solidarity with autistic individuals and their families.
The flagship walks are scheduled for April 12th, with prominent locations including Belmont Demesne in Greystones, Co. Wicklow, and Kylemore Abbey in Connemara, Co. Galway.
* Eric Roberts at the launch of AsIAm’s Same Chance Walk for Autism.
Roberts spoke passionately about the campaign, recalling the impact of last year’s event. “Seeing the influx of people that came last year and the camaraderie of the day and different families and how everyone communicated with each other, people in similar situations,” he observed.
He further elaborated on the inclusive nature of the walk. “But not only that, people that came from all walks of life that had nothing to do with anyone with autism. So, it’s such a gorgeous day out. Hopefully, we get the weather again this year. It was lovely last year, but it’s incredible to just raise awareness for those families.” His involvement underscores a commitment to using his platform to advocate for greater understanding and support for the autism community.
* The Same Chance Walk aims to raise awareness and support for autistic people and their families.
