Winning the Logie for Most Popular Lifestyle Program was always going to be emotional for The Living Room crew.
Last October, co-presenter Barry Du Bois shared his battle with cancer on the popular weekly show.
But backstage at the Logies, things got even more emotional as he told how co-star Amanda Keller was “everything” to him.
“She means an incredible amount to me,” the building expert and TV personality said. “We are a family. She’s been my soulmate from the second we met.”
Barry, 57, said he’s had “amazing support” from his three co-presenters.
“It’s brought us even closer together,” he said.
Amanda, 56, believes Barry’s story has “touched so many people”.
“There’s a lot of love for this show,” she said. “And much of that is to do with him.
“When Barry shared that his cancer had returned and what treatment lay ahead, I don’t think I’ve ever seen television as real as that.
“That touched a lot of people’s hearts, because he wanted to help and inspire other people. His work is amazing.”
Barry said a lot of families across Australia had been “struck by disease”.
“We hope it makes them feel a bit better to realise that, even though we’re up on that stage getting these things [awards], we have ups and downs too.”
Dr Chris Brown said Barry’s health battle had shaped their year on The Living Room.
“It’s all we think about, to be honest,” Chris, 39, said. “The show comes second to Barry and his health.”
Miguel Maestre, 38, explained that the four co-hosts try to be together as much as they can.
“There’s a lot of fake things out there in this world – not just in TV, but in life,” he pointed out. “But we are great friends.”
On the night of the Logies, Barry said he was feeling “fantastic”.
“Whenever I’m with these guys, I feel great,” he smiled. “I have the best support in the world.”
For more exclusive Logies interviews, pick up a copy of this week’s issue of TV WEEK.