From Bachelor to blockbuster: Tim Robards reveals surprise career move, life with daughters and the one fear that still terrifies him

He first stole hearts as Australia’s original Bachelor more than a decade ago.

Tim Robards recently shared how much his life has changed since becoming well-known on the reality TV show that launched his career.

I was so excited to read the Daily Mail’s exclusive interview with Tim! It’s fascinating to hear him talk about becoming a dad, his wonderful relationship with Anna Heinrich, and everything he went through to make it as an actor in Hollywood. Plus, he’s got a new movie coming out, and I can’t wait to see him shine!

Reflecting on his Bachelor days, Tim admitted the show gave him unexpected lessons in confidence.

He explained that taking risks and facing challenges, though uncomfortable, surprisingly builds confidence.

That belief pushed him to pursue acting – but he confessed the transition was far from smooth.

It’s been tough here in Australia, honestly. I feel like a lot of people still mostly know me as ‘the guy from The Bachelor’ before they see me as an actor. But working in the US has been such a breath of fresh air. They really just focus on your work – did you nail the audition or not? It’s so much more about your talent there, and it’s really encouraging.

Tim just finished filming what he says is his biggest project so far – a romantic comedy called Chef’s Kiss, which will be released as From Italy with Love in Australia.

I’m playing the role of a chef named Mason in a movie filmed in Sydney. The location was so beautiful, it really resembled Tuscany! It’s scheduled to be released in the US around Valentine’s Day in 2026.

Honestly, seeing Tim become a dad to those two sweet girls has completely melted my heart! He’s always been amazing, but he’s *softer* now, you know? He’s talked about how it’s really changed how he sees the world, and it’s just… beautiful to watch. It’s like a whole new side of him has emerged, and it’s all thanks to his daughters. I’m not even kidding, it’s the cutest thing ever!

He chuckled, saying his daughters were very traditionally feminine. Despite his efforts to encourage them to be themselves, they often copied their mother’s behavior.

To add a ‘masculine influence’, Tim has introduced his eldest daughter to Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

We’re at the same skill level in martial arts, both with four stripes on our white belts, and we were competing. It’s about building discipline, confidence, and the ability to defend yourself – all qualities I hope my kids develop.

Fatherhood, he says, has also unlocked his vulnerable side.

It’s interesting how many compelling male characters in movies and TV shows show vulnerability and emotional depth. And, for many men, having daughters helps them understand and appreciate that balance between strength and sensitivity.

Tim said Anna really went above and beyond for his birthday, and even got their daughter involved in keeping it a surprise.

She told me to keep my birthday free, and I assumed she meant someone was planning a trip to visit us on the Gold Coast, he explained.

Then, my daughter let slip that we were planning a trip to Singapore to visit her sister. It was a wonderful surprise, and we had a really full schedule while we were there.

Known for his enviable rig, Tim insists exercise isn’t negotiable – it’s what keeps him sane.

Exercise is incredibly beneficial – if there were a pill that could give you the same effects, it would be a game-changer. Personally, working out helps me be a better dad, feel more grounded, and manage stress more effectively.

For National Banana Day on October 8th, Tim is teaming up with ‘Banana Gym Pass’. This fun initiative allows people across Australia to swap a banana for a free gym session at participating locations.

Honestly, I’m SO excited about this! It’s perfect for anyone who’s let their workouts slip – like me, sometimes! – or if you’ve been meaning to check out that gym nearby. It’s exactly the push I needed, and I think a lot of people will feel the same way. It’s just a brilliant idea!

This fitness enthusiast always includes bananas in his daily routine, particularly when he’s working out.

I typically eat a banana either right before or after I exercise, often with a protein shake.

Bananas are an excellent natural food to eat before exercising. They provide sustained energy and are also good for your heart.

Robards even shared his go-to snacks, which all feature the humble fruit.

‘If I’m in a rush, I’ll grab a banana and eat it in the car,’ he said.

If not, I usually have sourdough toast with peanut butter and sliced banana – it’s tasty without being too filling. After exercising, I make a smoothie with a banana, vanilla protein powder, and berries. That’s pretty much what I eat regularly.

This campaign isn’t just about getting free gym memberships for Tim; it’s a way to show that getting fit can be easy and enjoyable.

He described bananas as a natural source of energy, like a convenient energy bar. He explained they’re fast, good for you, and provide the boost you need to power through exercise.

Even though Tim successfully completed SAS Australia and gained recognition on reality TV, he admitted he’s still afraid of heights.

Despite my size, I’m actually terrified of heights,” he said with a laugh, gesturing to show how small he feels when he thinks about them.

He remembered a recent family vacation to Singapore, where his wife and daughters talked him into attempting a scary high ropes course.

They were making fun of me the entire time. Then came a small bungee jump from a four-story building – I couldn’t let them have all the fun, so I joined in. I was really enjoying myself, despite everything.

Twelve years after fronting the first season of The Bachelor, Tim still stands by one mantra.

My grandma had a great saying she once wrote on a coffee cup: ‘Be yourself.’ That’s my biggest piece of advice for anyone considering reality TV. It’s important to be genuine – viewers can always tell when someone isn’t being real.

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2025-10-07 15:04