“Emmerdale Star Michael Parr Embraces Major Lifestyle Shift Before Becoming a Parent”

Michael Parr has embraced a ‘huge lifestyle change’ as he prepares to welcome his first child.  

The Emmerdale star, best known for portraying Ross Barton in the ITV soap, revealed in May that he and his girlfriend, Isabelle Du Plessis, are expanding their family. 

And as he gears up for the biggest role of his life, he has admitted that settling down was not something that was always on the cards for him. 

In a new interview with the Mirror, Michael, 38, said: ‘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.

‘Now I’m entering dad mode. I like my tea and early nights.’ 

Revealing his reaction to the pregnancy news, he added: ‘Once Izzy told me, my whole outlook on life changed, It’s made me realise what’s actually important to me.’

Back in May, Mike’s girlfriend took to Instagram to confirm they are set to become parents in a sweet post.

She shared a series of heartwarming photographs of her and Mike – who is best known for playing Ross Barton – cuddling up to one another.

Isabelle showed off her growing baby bump in a figure-hugging red floral gown, which she styled with white sandals.

Mike cut a smart figure in a white shirt and black trousers as he posed with his hand placed on Isabelle’s stomach.

The couple flashed huge smiles as they appeared thrilled to be sharing the news that they are growing their family.

They did not confirm the due date, simply teasing that their baby is due ‘soon’, nor have they yet announced their first child’s gender.

In a caption, Isabelle simply gushed: ‘In our Mum & Dad Era.’

Mike revealed in October that he was in a new relationship but kept the identity of his girlfriend a secret.

He told The Mirror at the time: ‘I’m in a very happy relationship. She’s amazing and has been very supportive.’

He previously dated his co-star Isabelle Hodgins – who plays Victoria Sugden on the soap – but the pair parted ways back in 2019.

Mike played the role of villain Ross Barton on Emmerdale from 2013 until 2018, and he has recently reprised his role.

After his debut on the show, he quickly became a fan favourite for his portrayal of the complex-but-charismatic Ross.

The actor said he was ‘bored’ just two months after his departure in 2018 due to being out of work, and reappeared on screen at the end of 2024.

Ross was known for his tumultuous relationships with Donna Windsor and Debbie Dingle, and his departure followed a horrific acid attack which left him battling depression.

Of his return, Michael said: ‘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.

‘After seeing the scripts, I can’t wait for the audience to see what’s in store. One thing I can say is Ross’s return will no doubt create fireworks.’