In a touching celebration of rugby league legend Rob Burrow’s life and legacy, BBC Sounds will release Rob Burrow Seven Meets — the final podcast series recorded before Burrow’s passing. This five-episode series will feature candid conversations with sports stars and close friends, encapsulating the joy, laughter, and spirit that Burrow carried despite his battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Set to release on Thursday, 26 September, what would have been Burrow’s 42nd birthday, this series promises to be an emotional yet uplifting reflection of the rugby icon’s life, alongside intimate insights from his guests.
A Podcast that Celebrates Life: Rob Burrow’s Legacy Continues
Before his untimely passing, Rob Burrow, who bravely fought MND, recorded Seven Meets, a continuation of his original podcast, Seven, released in collaboration with BBC Radio Leeds. In this final series, Burrow interviews some of the biggest names in sports, sharing stories, laughter, and moments of inspiration. His roster of guests includes recently retired Lioness Steph Houghton, her husband Stephen Darby (who also lives with MND), boxing legend Ricky Hatton, cricket superstar Stuart Broad, and close friend and MND advocate Kevin Sinfield.
Each episode delves into their personal lives, their experiences in sports, and meaningful connections with Burrow. For Kevin Sinfield, his episode reveals the deep bond they shared, which extended beyond the rugby pitch and became a force for raising awareness and funds for MND research. Their banter, jokes, and pranks add a lighthearted tone to what is otherwise a deeply poignant series.
Lindsey Burrow: Rob’s Backbone and Constant Support
Throughout Rob’s courageous fight with MND, his wife Lindsey Burrow was a constant presence, offering unwavering love and support. During the recordings of the podcast, she was by his side, making the entire process possible.
“Rob had so much enjoyment recording the podcast,” Lindsey said in a statement about the series. “He would want people to hear the episodes, the fun, and the laughter. That was what Rob was about. He never felt sorry for himself. He just got on with life. I think he’d be proud to have this series out, and I hope people enjoy listening to it and remember what a great guy Rob was.”
Her words reflect not only Rob’s remarkable resilience but also the joy and positivity he embodied throughout his life, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
A Special Date for a Special Series
The release of Rob Burrow Seven Meets on 26 September is no coincidence; the Burrow family chose this significant date to honor Rob’s memory, as it marks what would have been his 42nd birthday. The decision adds another layer of emotional significance to the series.
Before the official launch, however, listeners can enjoy a special one-off episode, available today (18 September), which features celebrities from the first series flipping the script on Rob. Guests including Wayne Rooney, Jonny Wilkinson, and Dame Kelly Holmes ask Rob a question, giving fans a glimpse into his own thoughts and personality.
A Podcast with Purpose: Supporting MND Awareness
Beyond its personal and emotional appeal, this podcast series carries a much deeper mission. Since his diagnosis, Rob Burrow became an instrumental figure in raising awareness and funds for MND research, alongside close friend Kevin Sinfield, who has spearheaded multiple fundraisers in Rob’s name. Sinfield’s marathons and fundraising efforts have already generated millions for MND charities, shining a spotlight on this devastating illness.
By bringing the conversation into the public eye through Rob Burrow Seven Meets, the series not only immortalizes Rob’s legacy but also continues to raise critical awareness for MND, pushing forward his mission even after his passing.
Kevin Sinfield: A Friendship Beyond Rugby
Kevin Sinfield’s relationship with Rob is one of the central themes of the podcast. Sinfield has been at the forefront of campaigning for MND support, running multiple marathons in honor of Rob. Their friendship was built on years of playing rugby together for the Leeds Rhinos, but it’s their work in the MND space that has truly exemplified their deep connection.
Speaking about Rob, Sinfield has consistently described him as a “warrior” and someone whose bravery inspired millions. The podcast showcases that bond and brings listeners closer to understanding just how strong and meaningful their friendship truly was.
Podcast Guests and Highlights
- Steph Houghton & Stephen Darby: The husband-and-wife duo share their insights into life with MND and the resilience it takes to continue moving forward, with Houghton also reflecting on her recent retirement from professional football.
- Ricky Hatton: The boxing legend turned coach shares his experiences, triumphs, and lessons learned in the world of professional sports, offering some candid and humorous moments with Rob.
- Stuart Broad: The cricket star, recently retired from international cricket, talks about his career highlights, the pressures of elite sport, and his friendship with Rob.
- Kevin Sinfield: In what promises to be one of the most emotional episodes, Kevin Sinfield and Rob dive deep into their longstanding friendship, from their rugby days to their shared mission in the fight against MND. The episode is filled with pranks, laughter, and heartfelt moments.
A Legacy That Lives On
Rob Burrow’s story is one of immense courage, resilience, and an unshakeable love for life, even in the face of adversity. Rob Burrow Seven Meets stands as a testament to his fighting spirit and his deep connections with those who knew him best. It’s a celebration of a life well-lived and a legacy that continues to inspire millions.
Fans, sports enthusiasts, and those touched by Rob’s story will find solace, joy, and laughter in each episode, as his infectious positivity shines through every conversation.
Make sure to tune in to BBC Sounds or BBC Radio Leeds on 26 September to experience this one-of-a-kind tribute to Rob Burrow.
