Roman Kemp, known for his work in television and radio, recently shared a poignant moment from his childhood regarding his football allegiance. The story unfolded during his participation in the current season of Celebrity Race Across The World, where Kemp competes alongside noted figures such as Anita Rani and Dylan Llewellyn.
Emotional Football Memory
As a lifelong Arsenal supporter, Kemp admitted that a single moment almost led him to abandon his team. The incident, dating back to 1999, occurred during an FA Cup semi-final. In a crucial match, Ryan Giggs, the legendary Manchester United player, scored a stunning solo goal that not only eliminated Arsenal from the competition but also left Kemp in tears.
He reflected on this memory while appearing on Sky Sports’ Football Museum, stating, “When that goal went in, it was the first time I ever cried about football.” His emotional response to the goal was significant enough for his father, Martin Kemp—a member of the band Spandau Ballet—to remain silent for three days after Roman expressed doubt about continuing his support for Arsenal.
Family Bonds and Personal Journeys
Despite that fleeting moment of despair, Kemp’s loyalty to Arsenal has endured. Currently, he is navigating challenges and experiences in his latest television venture alongside his sister, singer-songwriter Harley Moon. They are set to travel a total distance of 5,900 kilometers (3,600 miles), culminating at Peninsula de La Guajira in Colombia.
In describing his motivation for participating in this journey, Kemp emphasized the importance of sharing memories with his sister and the opportunity to create lasting experiences. He stated, “It’s such a privilege to be able to do something so special with your sister.”
Additionally, Kemp reflected on his desire for personal growth through travel, recognizing it as a valuable way to broaden his perspective. He mentioned that he missed out on the chance to take a gap year due to his early start in the workforce, making this experience even more meaningful.
Key Event Details
- Event: Celebrity Race Across The World
- Participants: Roman Kemp, Anita Rani, Dylan Llewellyn
- Distance: 5,900 km (3,600 miles)
- Finish line: Peninsula de La Guajira, Colombia
- Notable Memory: Ryan Giggs’ goal against Arsenal in 1999
This journey serves not only as a competition but also as a way for Kemp and his sister to bond and explore new cultures, making it a memorable chapter in their lives. As Kemp continues to navigate both personal and professional challenges, he remains committed to the teams and relationships that have shaped him.
