Renowned rugby icon Brian O’Driscoll, celebrated for his illustrious career on the field and insightful punditry off it.
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However, he shares the spotlight with his equally accomplished wife, Amy Huberman, whose talents span acting, writing, and even shoe design.
Huberman, recognised for her roles in hit TV shows like “The Clinic,” “Derry Girls,” and “Finding Joy,” stands as a formidable figure in the entertainment industry alongside her sports-star husband.
Dubbed “Ireland’s Posh and Becks” in their heyday, the couple’s early courtship garnered comparisons to David and Victoria Beckham, though such parallels have since faded.
Their family expanded with the arrival of three children – daughter Sadie in 2013, followed by sons Billy in 2015 and Ted in late 2020.
Despite their fame, both O’Driscoll and Huberman remain grounded, prioritising their family life over celebrity status.
Speaking to The Mirror in 2022, Huberman emphasised their commitment to the everyday responsibilities of parenthood, highlighting that while fame accompanies their careers, it’s their family that remains their central focus, a sentiment shared by her husband.
“I go to the school to pick up my kids. I identify with the day to day,” Huberman stated.
“Listen, with Brian’s success and (seeing as) we’re both in the public eye, [fame] is not a thing we focus on. It’s just a side that comes with our jobs, it still takes me by surprise.”
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Notably, a striking facet of Owens’ chosen players is their collective leadership qualities, with the majority of the selected individuals having served as captains for their respective nations.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
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Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
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Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”