'I’ve brought up a couple of million Australian kids': Play School veteran Simon Burke, 55, says he doesn't regret missing out on fatherhood

By Andrew Court For Daily Mail Australia

Published: | Updated:

He's the Play School favourite who appeared on the iconic kids program for two decades.

But Simon Burke has revealed he has no regrets about not having children of his own.

Speaking with Stellar on Sunday, the 55-year-old star stated that, although he wanted to be a father at one point, he is now 'quite happy not to be one'.

'Quite happy not to be one': In a candid interview with Stellar on Sunday, Play School star Simon Burke revealed he does not regret not having children

'Quite happy not to be one': In a candid interview with Stellar on Sunday, Play School star Simon Burke revealed he does not regret not having children

'Look, word on the street is that I’ve brought up a couple of million Australian kids, anyway,' the star stated, referring to his years starring on Play School.

During his long tenure on the show, he appeared alongside Noni Hazelhurst, Monica Trapaga, Don Spencer and Benita Collings.

Off-screen Simon usually keeps his private life out of the headlines, and has been in a relationship with partner, Peter, for thirteen years.

'I¿ve brought up a couple of million Australian kids': Simon is a Play School icon, and appeared on the popular program for almost two decades

'I’ve brought up a couple of million Australian kids': Simon is a Play School icon, and appeared on the popular program for almost two decades

TV favourite: Simon appeared alongside stars including Noni Hazelhurst, Monica Trapaga, Don Spencer and Benita Collings

TV favourite: Simon appeared alongside stars including Noni Hazelhurst, Monica Trapaga, Don Spencer and Benita Collings

However, the star told Stellar that he has never really 'come out', seeming to allude to the fact that his sexuality may have jeopardised his casting in certain roles.

He stated: 'You’re always judged on superficial factors — you literally may miss out on a role because you’re two inches too short, or due to your eye colour'.

Simon added that he does not consider himself a gay activist, but 'a political person who is deeply concerned about a number of issues'.

Private: Simon has been in a domestic relationship for thirteen years, but keeps his personal life out of the public eye 

Private: Simon has been in a domestic relationship for thirteen years, but keeps his personal life out of the public eye 

In addition to his time on Play School, Simon has starred on a number of other beloved Australian TV shows.

As an Australian acting icon he has made appearances on A Country Practice, The Flying Doctors, Water Rats and Blue Heelers.

Simon will next star in the play Noises Off, which opens in Melbourne on Wednesday. 

Acting icon: Simon has made appearances on A Country Practice, The Flying Doctors, Water Rats and Blue Heelers

Acting icon: Simon has made appearances on A Country Practice, The Flying Doctors, Water Rats and Blue Heelers

 

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