Spandau Ballet star and son bringing a true taste of Cork gold to British screens

Celebrity father-and-son duo Martin and Roman Kemp are set to experience Ireland’s legends, landscapes and locals in a new three-part series, 'Martin and Roman’s Irish Road Trip.'

Martin Kemp, the English actor and musician best known as the bassist for 1980s new wave band Spandau Ballet and for playing the villain Steve Owen in Eastenders.

His son Roman Kemp is a radio DJ and television presenter, while both he and his father have participated in reality TV shows including I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here.

The new series, which starts airing on Channel 4 next Monday,  August 10, is co-produced by Tourism Ireland and Rock Oyster Media.

Tourism Ireland is the organisation responsible for promoting the island of Ireland overseas as a leading holiday destination, as an agency of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment in Ireland and the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland.

The journey begins in Cork, where the celebrity father-and-son duo explore the history of Spike Island, unravel the mystery of stone circles, and try their hand at kayaking.

Commenting on his filming experience, Roman Kemp said: “It was an amazing place. Ireland as a whole was beautiful.” 

Martin Kemp added: “I know from spending time there, it is such a beautiful place and the people are so lovely. If you are going to go anywhere, with Ireland you can’t go far wrong.”

Julie Wakley, Tourism Ireland's head of Great Britain, said: “We are excited for viewers across Britain to tune into this new series and follow Martin and Roman Kemp as they explore the ancient stories and traditions that make our island unique.

“The series captures our stunning scenery and rich heritage and is sure to inspire viewers to come and explore the island of Ireland for themselves.” 

Ms Wakley that publicity and broadcasts like this are a key element of Tourism Ireland’s programme of promotional activity, to encourage travellers in Britain, and elsewhere around the world, to put the island of Ireland on their holiday must-visit list.