Having a family is ‘number one priority’ for DWTS judge Arthur and his husband Brian Dowling
DANCING With The Stars’ newest judge Arthur Gourounlian has revealed how his move to Ireland and landing a gig on the country’s biggest show is ‘a dream come true’.
The Armenian national, who is married to reality star and former Big Brother winner Brian Dowling, thanked the people of Ireland for taking him to their hearts after growing up in a country where – although homosexuality is no longer illegal – homophobia is common.
Arthur told the Irish Mail on Sunday: ‘Ireland has been simply amazing to me, so welcoming. It’s been incredible; the people, the social media, Ireland has just been a dream. It’s a great feeling to be welcomed so warmly – I am blessed to be here.’
Another dream for Arthur, along with Brian, is to start a family. The couple have been together for more than 15 years and, of course, had a suitably showbiz wedding.
But now somewhat older, they want to expand their household to make room for a family. ‘Having kids has always been my goal,’ explains Arthur, 41. ‘I want to leave a legacy behind us. The baby train has definitely left so we are just waiting and waiting for the right time. Having a family is a number one priority,’ he went on. ‘Hopefully very soon! We are aiming to be parents. All our friends have kids and that is what I want. Why are we working if we aren’t building something?’
He won’t be short of helpers – though the DWTS judge admits growing up gay in Armenia was not easy, he is extremely close to his sister and mother. Though some of his familial relationships are still difficult, he says: ‘You just have to let go of some things in life. My priority was my sister and my mother – if they accept me, then the rest of the world doesn’t affect me. My mam and my sister are my best friends; they spent Christmas here, they love Brian. The rest of them I don’t care.’
He also says that his mother Maria and sister Nazik are ‘bursting with pride’ at his new-found fame as a judge on Dancing With The Stars.