Claire Brock, known for presenting The Tonight Show on Virgin Media Television – the channel’s premier news show – transitioned from an assistant news producer at TV3 to radio and then to UTV Ireland eventually.
Would you say you’re congenial?
I like to view myself as friendly and likable. Although I haven’t conducted a survey, I genuinely cherish decent company and always appreciate a hearty laugh.
Can you share your middle name and your thoughts about it?
My middle name is Mary, inherited from my maternal grandmother, Mary MacInerney. I hold very pleasant memories of her, a dignified lady hailing from Limerick. Interestingly, my children also bear their grandparents’ names as their middle names – a practice I find quite conventional yet endearing.
Can you tell us about your favourite location in Ireland?
I especially love Carrickmines, the place I call home. It’s strategically positioned near the magnificent Dublin mountains and close to Dún Laoghaire, the place where I grew up. There’s a charming blend of nostalgia. I really savour the present moment and find joy in staying near the sea.
Can you portray yourself in three phrases?
I’d describe myself as hopeful, easily entertained and prone to postpone tasks.
When was the last time you lost your temper?
I tend to lose my temper more often with online argumentative individuals than I ideally should.
What do you wish to regain that you’ve lost?
More personal time. However, the trade-off is that I’d probably experience guilt and miss my children, so it’s a lose-lose situation.
What’s your vivid childhood memory?
I have this striking memory of being a passenger in the back seat during family holidays, with my father playing Dire Straits and Alison Moyet on the car’s stereo, and us kids alternating to ask about the remaining distance.
What’s your birth position in your family and its impact on you?
I’m a middle child and that’s somewhat shaped me. I’ve always sensed a hint of uniqueness about my position. My family believes I have a tendency to be overly dramatic – although it’s all a matter of perspective.
What do you believe will happen after you pass away?
I’m not certain, but I find comfort in the notion of still being aware of the happenings around.
When did you experience extreme happiness?
The milestones of my wedding and the births of my children were exceptionally joyous occasions. Subsequently, sleeping in brings me a lot of joy. I find happiness and feel incredibly fortunate that my parents are still in good health, and I thoroughly enjoy our family gatherings.
If there were a film about your existence, which actress would be best suited to portray you?
Well, ideally, I’d like Naomi Watts for the job. However, a random individual I met on a skiing trip, likened me to Bridget Jones. So, Renée Zellweger may have to reluctantly step in as well.
Is there a professional or personal mistake that you hold deep regret for?
Unable to secure a part in EastEnders when I was 17 years old is a regret I carry. I was very close to being cast as Mark Fowler’s Irish relative.
Are there any peculiar mental specs you may have?
Certainly, overthinking is an issue for me. This question isn’t exempt. Moreover, I often find myself running around at the last minute, because who needs planning when one can simply rush through things?