Australian television presenter Rove McManus has shared an emotional tribute to his first wife, Belinda Emmett, marking 20 years since her passing. The comedian posted a video of the former Home and Away actress and reflected on their relationship. His tribute has also renewed interest in his current wife, Tasma Walton, who has been an important part of his life for nearly two decades.
McManus married Walton in June 2009, three years after losing Emmett to breast cancer. Walton, an accomplished Australian actress and writer, was already a longtime friend before their relationship became romantic. The couple now live in Perth with their daughter, Ruby, and generally keep their family life away from public attention.
Who Is Rove McManus’ Wife Tasma Walton?
Tasma Walton is an Australian actress and writer best known for her performances in Blue Heelers, Home and Away, Mystery Road and The Twelve.
She was born on August 19, 1973, in Geraldton, Western Australia. Walton began pursuing acting at a young age and later studied at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Sydney.
Her breakthrough came through Australian television, particularly her portrayal of Constable Dash McKinley in Blue Heelers. The role helped establish her as a familiar face among Australian audiences.
Walton has continued working across television, film and theater. She is also an author, with her historical novel I Am Nannertgarrook receiving literary recognition.
Although she is married to one of Australia’s best-known television personalities, Walton has maintained an independent career throughout their relationship.
How Did Rove McManus and Tasma Walton Meet?
Rove McManus and Tasma Walton knew each other for approximately ten years before becoming romantically involved.
Both had connections to Western Australia and worked in the Australian entertainment industry. Their friendship developed through professional and social circles.
Interestingly, Walton was responsible for introducing McManus to his first wife, Belinda Emmett, at an entertainment industry event in Sydney in 1999.
McManus and Emmett subsequently began dating and married in 2005.
Following Emmett’s passing in November 2006, McManus experienced a difficult period of grief. Walton remained part of his wider circle of friends during this time.
Their relationship eventually developed into romance in 2007.
In a June 2026 interview, McManus admitted that he once believed he might never find love again. He described himself as fortunate to have experienced two meaningful relationships.
When Did Rove McManus Marry Tasma Walton?
Rove McManus and Tasma Walton married on June 16, 2009, during a private beach ceremony in Broome, Western Australia.
The wedding was attended by a small group of family members and close friends.
Unlike many traditional proposals, Walton was the person who asked McManus to marry her.
Before proposing, she contacted his mother, Coralie, to ask for her blessing.
McManus later recalled that his mother knew about the surprise before he did. After returning from a trip to the United States, he discovered that Walton had arranged the proposal.
For their wedding, Walton wore a vintage white sundress, while McManus went barefoot.
The couple chose a simple celebration rather than an elaborate celebrity wedding.
Their marriage has now lasted more than 17 years.
Do Rove McManus and Tasma Walton Have Children?
Rove McManus and Tasma Walton have one daughter, Ruby, who was born in December 2013.
The couple announced Walton’s pregnancy earlier that year while attending the Toronto International Film Festival.
Ruby has occasionally appeared in family photographs, but her parents have generally protected her privacy.
In a 2026 interview, McManus spoke about his daughter’s personality and her growing independence.
He explained that Ruby has developed her own interests and personal style, something he appreciates about her upbringing.
The family live in Perth, where McManus and Walton have established a quieter lifestyle compared with their earlier years in Sydney and Melbourne.
Their property investments have also attracted attention, with reports examining homes they have owned in Sydney and Western Australia.
Who Was Rove McManus’ First Wife Belinda Emmett?
Before marrying Tasma Walton, Rove McManus was married to Australian actress Belinda Emmett.
Emmett was widely recognized for her performances in Home and Away and All Saints.
The couple began their relationship after meeting in 1999 and married in January 2005.
Emmett had previously been diagnosed with breast cancer, and her illness later returned.
She passed away on November 11, 2006, at the age of 32.
McManus subsequently stepped away from his television commitments while grieving.
On November 11, 2026, he marked the 20th anniversary of her passing with a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
He shared an old television clip featuring Emmett and remembered the impact she had on his life.
McManus has also maintained connections with members of Emmett’s family, including her brother Shane.
Rove McManus and Tasma Walton’s Family Life Today
Rove McManus and Tasma Walton remain married as of November 2026.
Earlier this year, McManus was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of his contributions to broadcasting, entertainment and the community.
He also returned to live performance with his stand-up tour Tonight’s Guest: Rove McManus, revisiting memorable moments from his television career.
Walton continues pursuing acting and writing while raising their daughter.
Their relationship has remained relatively private, despite both maintaining successful careers in entertainment.
For McManus, his marriage to Walton represents a significant chapter following the loss of his first wife. His recent reflections have highlighted the importance of both relationships and the family life he has built with Walton and their daughter.