Bratislava – For many, fatherhood is a defining chapter, but for Slovak actor and television host Rastislav Sokol, it’s a story unfolding in unexpected time. At 57, Sokol is embracing the joys of parenthood anew with his four-year-classic son, Kubko, a development he describes as revitalizing. This comes alongside his established family, with older children aged 30 and 35 and a successful career that includes hosting the popular quiz show Dobre vedieť! on JOJ television. Sokol recently spoke candidly about balancing family life and his career, and the unexpected delight of becoming a father again later in life.
Sokol’s voice is well-known throughout Slovakia, not only as a television personality but too as a prolific voice actor. He was, fittingly, recording dialogue for a Turkish telenovela during his recent interview with Najmama.sk. “The character I’m voicing is a doctor, and the plot is quite tangled – his ex-girlfriend had a son with him, and he only finds out when the boy is almost 25 years old. Now he wants to get to know him. It’s a really tearful telenovela, but Turkish productions are good at that,” he shared.
The return of Dobre vedieť! to JOJ television has brought Sokol back into the spotlight, alongside modern team captains Zuzana Šebová and Juraj Loj. The show, known for its blend of knowledge and humor, has been warmly received by audiences. Sokol expressed his gratitude to JOJ for reviving the program, noting the consistent requests from viewers over the years. He praised the dynamic between himself and the new captains, highlighting Šebová’s wit and Loj’s elegance.
“There’s a beautiful moment of male-female interplay, a spark always flies. Zuzka is amazing at making fun of herself. Ďuro is also an elegant gentleman, but he can also deliver a pointed remark. They are both great actors and people,” Sokol said.
A Late-in-Life Blessing: Fatherhood Revisited
Sokol’s personal life has taken a joyful turn with the arrival of Kubko, born during the COVID-19 pandemic. He describes Kubko as an “unexpected, ‘covid’ baby,” arriving at a time when his age was already a consideration. “But when I saw that ‘bundle’ in the hospital, it completely revitalized me. He came at the right time, in the middle of that general depression from COVID,” he explained. He acknowledges that he may not have dedicated as much time to his older children in the 1990s due to work commitments, and is cherishing the opportunity to be more present with Kubko.
Balancing parenthood with older children already established in their lives presents a unique dynamic. Sokol’s partner, Erika, also has a teenage son from a previous relationship, adding another layer to the family structure. Whereas the age differences create distinct relationships – with Kubko being a “momma’s boy” and sharing more “manly” conversations with his father – Sokol emphasizes the overall harmony. His daughter, Lucka, experienced a brief moment of jealousy upon Kubko’s birth, but the family has since found a comfortable rhythm.
Lucka recently married, a source of immense happiness for Sokol. She is a successful animator who found love through a connection with her husband’s mother, who also served as Lucka’s therapist – a testament to the small-world nature of Slovakia.
Family Rituals and a Low-Key Approach to Commitment
Sokol and Kubko share a cherished morning ritual: waking up at 6 a.m., enjoying coffee and milk, and spending half an hour watching YouTube or simply talking. Kubko’s fascination with cars is another source of joy for Sokol, with the pair often discussing engines, V6s, and V8s. “Every time I come home from work, he asks me, ‘Dad, did you buy me a car?’ When I say I only bought yogurt, he’s disappointed,” Sokol chuckled.
Kubko has been attending kindergarten since September, providing Sokol and his partner with a bit more personal time. While his partner’s son, Marko, is navigating the challenges of adolescence, Sokol enjoys occasional soccer games with Kubko, recognizing their differing interests.
Despite his daughter’s inquiry, Sokol and his partner have no immediate plans for a wedding. He notes that his mother once married to provide her children with a shared surname, but in their case, with different last names, it hasn’t been a priority. “Maybe we’ll address it for Kubko’s sake someday, but we’re not rushing into it. I’m not pushing for a wedding. My older son, Maťo, is 35 and doesn’t perceive the demand either,” he said with a laugh. “The most important thing is that we are all healthy and happy.”
Sokol’s story is a reminder that family life can unfold in unexpected and beautiful ways, regardless of age or circumstance. His renewed embrace of fatherhood, coupled with his continued success in the entertainment industry, demonstrates a fulfilling balance between personal and professional life.
As Dobre vedieť! continues to entertain audiences on JOJ television, Rastislav Sokol remains a beloved figure in Slovak media, sharing his wit and warmth both on and off screen. The next scheduled broadcast of Dobre vedieť! will air on February 29th, offering viewers another opportunity to enjoy the show’s unique blend of knowledge and humor.
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