CELEB Q & A
The self-confessed homebody values family, his relationship, his animals, and the quieter moments that often get lost in the rush of everyday life.
Classens offers a candid look at the man behind the character. He also opens up about modern masculinity, mental health, travel, fitness and the next chapter of his life as he prepares to marry his fiancée in 2027.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST TURNING POINT IN YOUR CAREER, AND HOW HAS IT SHAPED THE MAN YOU ARE TODAY? The biggest turning point in my career was landing my role on Suidooster. It was an incredible opportunity that gave me greater confidence in my abilities and a sense of security within the industry.
I’ m privileged to work with such an amazing team and grateful to still be part of the show. The experience has helped me grow both professionally and personally, and it has played a significant role in shaping the man I am today.
WHAT KEEPS YOU GROUNDED WHEN LIFE GETS BUSY? A good life, for me, is one in which I remain connected to the people and things that matter most. My family is incredibly important to me, and I have a small circle of friends who are always honest, positive, and supportive. My animals also bring a great deal of joy and balance to my life, as does the relationship I share with my fiancée.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR YOU TO BE OPEN ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AND THE PRESSURES YOU EXPERIENCE? Men are often reluctant to share their feelings because they believe they’ re expected to handle everything on their own. That doesn’ t mean you have to share your personal struggles with the entire world, but keeping everything bottled up until you reach breaking point isn’ t healthy.
WHEN WORK, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND LIFE START FEELING OVERWHELMING, HOW DO YOU SWITCH OFF AND RESET? Spending time in nature is a big one. I enjoy walking on the beach with my dogs and relaxing at home with my fiancée.
Many of my friends live in Johannesburg, so playing online games with them is another way for me to unwind and stay connected.
HAVE YOU EVER BATTLED SELF-DOUBT OR QUESTIONED WHETHER YOU WERE ON THE RIGHT PATH? There have certainly been moments when I’ ve questioned myself or lost confidence. When that happens, I try to step back, clear my mind, and reflect on how far I’ ve come.
WHAT’ S SOMETHING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT EDEN WHEN THE CAMERAS ARE OFF? People might be surprised to learn how introverted I am. I work in a very social industry that involves events, public appearances, and maintaining a presence on social media, but away from the cameras, I’ m a real homebody. I enjoy spending time with my family and close friends, and I’ m comfortable in my own company
WHAT’ S YOUR ULTIMATE COMFORT MEAL, AND ARE YOU ACTUALLY ANY GOOD IN THE KITCHEN? My ultimate comfort meal is pizza. After a difficult day or an exhausting training session, it’ s the meal I’ m most likely to crave.
I’ m fairly capable in the kitchen, although I keep things simple. I’ ve learnt how to prepare basic meals that are healthy and tasty, but I certainly wouldn’ t describe myself as a chef. I can cook well enough to look after myself, and I’ m happy with that.
IS THERE A DESTINATION STILL SITTING FIRMLY ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? I was fortunate enough to live in the United States when I was younger, and I’ ve also travelled through Europe and visited several other destinations. Those experiences broadened my perspective and taught me a great deal.
I don’ t think money spent on meaningful travel experiences is ever wasted. I would love to return to the United States and spend more time in New York.
WHAT’ S NEXT FOR YOU PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY? Personally, I’ m engaged and looking forward to getting married next year. Professionally, I’ m still thoroughly enjoying my work on Suidooster. IB
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