HERMAN Ese’ese hopes to be a hit that needs no translation in Newcastle – after first learning about the place through subtitles.
For that is how the boys and girls of Geordie Shore were presented in Australia.
The MTV show was a surprisingly big hit Down Under, even though the accents left viewers confused.
One of them was now Hull FC prop Ese’ese. Now he is heading to the north east for Magic Weekend, he is looking to have the Tyne of his life as John Cartwright’s side rides high after 2024’s horror show.
And after teaching his young team-mates as they endured a woeful season, he hopes his side can further show lessons were learned.
Ese’ese said: “That was the first I’d heard of Newcastle and back when I was in Australia, it was big.
“And it had to have subtitles on it – it’s a really thick accent. I don’t think anyone could understand it without them!
“But I’m a big football fan and I started watching their team play – and our black and white kit goes well. It’s a black and white city and I think it fits the occasion really well.
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“When we first drove into Newcastle this week, all I saw was Newcastle United – all the jerseys and people wearing jerseys walking around the streets.
“But it wasn’t until I got to the stadium that I realised how big it actually is. I’d only seen it on TV before and it’s good for the sport to be played there. It’s good for the expansion of the game.
“Newcastle isn’t really big in rugby league, but hopefully after the weekend we get a few more on board supporting the game.”
Ese’ese has been arguably the form prop of Super League so far as Hull FC sit fourth going into Magic Weekend.
The 30-year-old, who has faced England for both New Zealand and Australia, has made a habit of skittling opponents on the pitch.
Away from it, though, the self-proclaimed ‘gentle giant’ is a long way from the persona we may see at St James’ Park as his side faces winless Huddersfield on Sunday.
And the feedback he is now receiving from people who stop him when he is out walking his dog, River, is much more welcome than previously.
Ese’ese added: “When you win more games and you’re more successful throughout the season, the fans all jump on board.
“Even last year, we had a good turnout and it was a big learning curve for the younger lads. I can see the growth in them and how they handle themselves on and off the field.
“I felt a bit like a teacher last year but I try to lead with my actions.
“When it comes to games, I’m locked in. Off the field, I’m just a little gentler guy. I’m quiet.
“I love my dog as well. We brought River over – we couldn’t leave him. He was our baby boy and we had him since he was eight weeks.
“When I’m out there in public, I get stopped a lot. It comes with the reputation. It comes with the game.
“But I’m happy with that. I can’t hide away from it – now they want to speak to me for different reasons.”