Former rugby ace rob kearney says it was his wife’s idea to name their newborn son Ross in a tribute to his late brother, who died in a road traffic accident when they were children.
Rob Kearney Says Wife Jess Chose The Name Ross
Kearney revealed that the poignant name for their second child was chosen by his wife, Jess. The couple, who married in 2021 at Trump’s Doonbeg hotel, welcomed their second son last year and decided to call him Ross. They also share a two-year-old son, Bobby.
Opening up about how they landed on the name, he said they had struggled to settle on boys’ names. “No, it wasn’t to be fair [his idea]. In truth, it was Jess’ idea. We were struggling for boys’ names a little bit, ” he said, adding that they find girls’ names easier because “there are so many beautiful girls’ names out there but boys’ names are hard work. ” He emphasized again: “It was Jess’ idea, so full credit to her. ”
Sharing a brief update on life at home, he described their two boys as “lively and wild, ” adding that they always need to be doing something but that both are doing well.
A Tribute Rooted In Family Loss
The name carries deep personal significance. Kearney’s older brother, also named Ross, died in a road traffic accident when he was six years old; at the time, Kearney was two. Choosing the name for their newborn son serves as a family tribute to the brother he lost at a young age.
In reflecting on the choice, rob kearney gave full credit to his wife for suggesting the meaningful nod. The decision underscores how the couple balanced the practical challenge of choosing a boy’s name with a wish to honor a piece of Kearney family history.
Speaking At McSorley’s New Upstairs Venue
Kearney discussed the family update while attending the opening of a new upstairs venue at McSorley’s of Ranelagh. The space—Upstairs at McSorley’s—offers an intimate piano bar experience, while the downstairs cocktail bar has been carefully refurbished to enhance the original pub without losing its character.
“McSorley’s has always been a special place in Ranelagh and we were very conscious of respecting that history, ” he said. “With the addition of Upstairs at McSorley’s, we wanted to create something that feels exciting and fresh, while still keeping the authenticity that makes the pub what it is. ”
He added that the aim is to give people more reasons to come through the doors, “whether that is for a great pint downstairs or a brilliant night upstairs. ”
