Michael Parr, known for playing Ross Barton on Emmerdale, has had his share of real-life romantic entanglements. After joining the ITV soap, he quickly became a fan favourite, featuring in dramatic storylines including an acid attack and illegal boxing.
Relationship with Emmerdale co-star
A few years after joining the show, Michael began secretly dating Isabel Hodgins, who plays Victoria Sugden. The couple kept their relationship private, rarely posting on social media. In 2016, they made it Instagram official. For her birthday, Michael wrote: "Happy 24th birthday to this little one. Who woulda thought that 5'2 (and a half) could pack so much love, devotion and attitude. Thank you for being the most wonderful and caring best friend a boy could ask for. Love you to the moon and back. X."
However, by 2019, Michael and Isabel split after three years together, following Michael's departure from Emmerdale to pursue opportunities in America. A source told The Sun: "They drifted apart and felt it was better to be mates. He has been throwing himself into his social life and has just been on a lads' hol and she is focusing on work, they're both young and want to follow their dreams. They had a meaningful relationship and they'll remember the good times."
New romance and proposal mishap
After parting ways with Isabel, Michael found love in 2023 with Isabelle Du Plessis after connecting on dating app Hinge. Their relationship flourished, and they welcomed a daughter, Suzie Rose Par, in September 2025. Earlier this year, Michael proposed during a trip to South Africa. He explained to The Mirror: "We were going on safari. I said to her family, 'If we see elephants or giraffes at the watering hole, I'll take that as the sign to pop the question.'" Isabelle recalled: "I had no idea at all." Michael tried to guide her to a bushwalk, but she resisted, saying: "I've done bushwalks before. I'm not that into it, but I think you should go." Michael then said: "You were literally stopping your own proposal."
