After a rollercoaster two-year saga on the iconic Kiwi soap, Martin spills the tea on his sensational departure and what’s brewing next.
Turning the page on his soap opera chapter, the 24-year-old is lacing up his boxing gloves once again, diving back into the ring alongside his bro, Jake, with dreams of Spartacus stardom twinkling in his eyes.
“Leaving Shorty was bittersweet, but I’m pumped for what’s next. Hitting the ring and maybe slashing through Spartacus? Bring it on!” said an excited Martin.
The shocking on-screen death of Martin’s beloved character sent shockwaves through Shortland Street’s fanbase, marking the end of an era for Dr. Parata.
“Shortland Street was a whirlwind of highs and learning curves. An absolute honour,” reminisces Martin, who’s now set on conquering new peaks.
Life after the limelight has transformed Martin, giving him a chance to zoom out and cherish the bigger picture, especially family ties. Raised by their powerhouse mum, Michelle, in Te Atatū South, Zak and Jake, a 21-year-old plumbing whiz, are on a quest to do her proud, with boxing as their battlefield.
Despite a heartbreak at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where an injury sidelined Zak, the brothers are more fired up than ever.
“Boxing’s in our blood. We’re ready to dominate the ring this year,” vows Jake, who recently showcased his might at the North Island Golden Gloves.
Zak, itching to shake off the ring rust, is all geared up for a comeback fight, steering clear of pies to nail his welterweight target. “First major fight’s on the horizon, and I’m all in,” he told Spy.
The siblings also idolise boxing legends Joseph Parker and David Nyika, drawing inspiration for their own quests for glory. Beyond the ring, the Martins are venturing into the podcast realm with The Martin Show, aiming to light up conversations on everything from passions to men’s mental health.
With a blend of laughter and raw honesty, they’re set to interview go-getters, sharing insights and inspirations. “The Martin Show is about real talk, real people, real vibes,” shares Zak.
As for Zak’s acting ambitions? “Spartacus would be epic. I’m ready for whatever the universe throws my way,” he quips, hinting at a thrilling future ahead.
