Jack Keating has spoken candidly about becoming a father, in an exclusive new interview with Goss.ie.
Back in March, the Love Island 2022 star shocked fans by announcing the surprise birth of his first child – a daughter named Maya Ann.
The 24-year-old, who is the son of Boyzone star Ronan Keating and model Yvonne Connolly, has been co-parenting with the baby’s mother – who he is not in a relationship with.
Speaking about how becoming a parent has changed his life, Jack told Goss.ie: “Oh my god, it’s changed massively in the best way.”
“Obviously it was a big shock, it wasn’t part of the plan. But the past few months have been amazing. Maya is five and a half months old now, and that time has absolutely flown by.”
“But yeah my life has definitely changed, I’m not the most important person anymore, my priorities have changed. You have to start thinking about the future a lot more, and securing yourself. But it’s been amazing, I’m loving every minute of it.”
Jack admitted: “I’ve always wanted to be a father. Even with my dad and Storm having Coco and Cooper, I got to experience what it was like changing nappies and getting up with them in the mornings.”
“So I was always looking forward to doing it myself, and it’s been an amazing ride. I’m so happy.”
Speaking about co-parenting, the Dublin native told us: “It’s been great so far. Everyone has their ups and downs but it’s great, we get on well.”
“[Maya’s mum] lives up in Birmingham at the moment, and I’m in London. So I get up to see Maya as much as possible, which is lovely.”
“She’s finishing breastfeeding soon as well which is going to be great because I’ll be able to spend a bit more time with her. I’ll get to have her over for weekends which I’m really excited for.”
When asked what’s the biggest thing he’s learned since becoming a father, Jack said: “Probably what I said before, that you’re not the most important in your life anymore. Your priorities change.”
“I’m still young so obviously I still go out and have a good time, but you always have to think about how everything you do now goes towards her future. My priorities have definitely changed a lot.”
“Becoming a parent makes you grow up a lot. I feel like even looking back to a year ago, before I was in Love Island, I’m such a different person. It’s crazy how quickly things can change in your life. Having Maya has definitely helped me to mature,” he added.
Jack is Goss.ie‘s latest Spotlight On cover star. Check out the full exclusive interview here.
