The film or book that changed my life is…
I watched Top Gun and The Goonies until the VHS tape was beyond repair, but it’s The Color Purple with the epic Whoopi Goldberg as Celie that I remember most clearly. It almost certainly has had a part in my life, both personally and professionally.
The fictional character that most reminds me of myself is…
My wife’s response was, “That fella from The Hangover.” I said, “Bradley Cooper.” She said, “Nope, Zach Galifianakis.” She definitely got her characters mixed up, so Bradley Cooper it is, even if my wife is pretty adamant.
The five people I would have at my ideal dinner party are…
Will Smith, Jacinda Ardern, Richie McCaw, James Corden and Oprah Winfrey.
If I could bring someone famous/accomplished back from the dead, it would be…
I went for Jonah Lomu but Muhammad Ali was shaking his hand so obviously they both came, which was a spot of good luck. Both childhood idols.
The quote that motivates me or sums me up is…
Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself.
When I need to get some spark back into my soul, I try and…
Hit the trails, running or mountain biking with my eldest son. Good as new before long.
The most overused piece of advice I’d like to correct is…
Perhaps, “Time is a healer,” which is used interchangeably with, “It’ll be right.” Take a breath, then a few more, before taking positive action and asking for help when needed.
The things I need for a perfect night in are…
My wife, Baileys, a roaring log fire and heavy rain outside. Oh, and to know with certainty that my two boys are going to sleep through until 7am. Forever hopeful.
The living person I most admire is…
“Barack Obama. One impressive person, for sure.”
The family member I talk to when I need advice is…
My sister. A lawyer with a heart. Listens, but then cuts to the chase.
My most overused phrase as a parent is…
“Whatever you’re thinking right now, don’t do it!” If you have kids and you catch that look in their eyes, you’ll know what I mean.
Tony with wife Kirsty and sons Finn and Luca
Quickfire
Fiction or non-fiction?
Non-fiction
Chocolate or cheese?
Chocolate, every time and all the time.
Pop or rock?
Rock. Whitesnake was my first CD.
Dogs or Cats?
Dogs.
Tea or coffee?
Coffee
Catch up on all the drama from Married at First Sight NZ Season 2
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