TV and radio presenter Roman Kemp has opened up about a profound shift in his family life, admitting his famous parents were left "scared" before he and his sister embarked on a life-changing television adventure.
A Victorious Journey Across Central America
The 32-year-old broadcaster recently triumphed on BBC One's Celebrity Race Across the World alongside his sibling, Harleymoon Kemp. The pair secured victory in the final episode, which aired last week, after a gruelling 33-day, 5,900km journey across Central America. Their win was nail-bitingly close, as they crossed the finish line in Colombia's Guajira Peninsula just two minutes ahead of rivals Molly Rainford and Tyler West.
Competing on a tight budget of £950 per person and without the use of mobile phones, the siblings faced immense challenges. The final leg alone involved navigating a 1,000km route from Medellín. Their success came six hours before third-place finishers Ani and Bal Rani, while Derry Girls star Dylan Llewellyn and his mother Jackie came fourth after running out of funds.
Mending Sibling Bonds and Mental Health Revelations
Prior to the show, Roman and 36-year-old Harleymoon confessed their busy careers had created distance, limiting their time together to practicalities like dropping off dogs or keys. Harleymoon expressed her excitement at rediscovering her brother, stating the race offered a chance to "meet Roman again as a person."
The experience proved transformative. Roman explained on the You About? podcast that he now finds it easier to understand his sister's personality, quelling past frustrations. More poignantly, Roman, who has been vocal about his battles with depression and PTSD, revealed a critical moment where Harleymoon may have saved his life. He shared that a call between his sister and their mother, Shirlie, during a mental health crisis was potentially life-saving, a fact he hadn't previously discussed with Harleymoon directly.
Celebrity Parents' Anxieties and Lasting Change
Despite their own fame—father Martin Kemp is a Spandau Ballet star and former EastEnders actor, while mother Shirlie was a backing singer for WHAM!—the couple were apprehensive about their children's televised journey. Roman told singer Tom Grennan that his parents were "so scared about us arguing" given their contrasting personalities, describing himself as "boring" compared to Harleymoon's wild, party spirit.
Now, with the race complete, both siblings hope the shared experience will inspire them to prioritise quality time. Harleymoon voiced her hope that they will continue to see each other more frequently, moving beyond only meeting at their parents' home. The Kemp siblings have undoubtedly forged a stronger, more understanding relationship, turning their parents' initial fear into a celebrated family victory.
