Channel Seven star Erin Holland has candidly shared the challenges of her long-distance marriage to Australian cricketer Ben Cutting, as well as her ongoing struggles with IVF. In an interview with Stellar magazine, Holland revealed the emotional and logistical hurdles of maintaining their relationship while managing demanding careers.
The couple, who have been married for nearly five years, navigate a unique arrangement where Holland divides her time between Sydney and Brisbane. She resides in Sydney from Monday to Thursday for work commitments, then travels to Brisbane each weekend to be with Cutting. “It sounds dramatic, but I do have to think like that sometimes. It’s been a hectic year,” Holland admitted, reflecting on the complexities of her lifestyle.
Balancing Careers and Personal Lives
Holland, originally from Cairns, moved to Sydney at the age of 17 for university and has called the city home ever since. While the couple experienced living together during the COVID-19 lockdowns, they have primarily maintained a long-distance relationship. “The only time Ben and I have ever lived together longer than two or three weeks at a time was during COVID,” she explained.
Friends and family often express concern over their arrangement, but Holland insists it works well for them. “Some people go, ‘Oh, alarm bells.’ But it’s just a reality of two people who have careers that involve travel,” she stated. The couple’s mutual understanding of their demanding careers has been crucial to their relationship’s longevity. “Many people know what it’s like to have a FIFO family member,” Holland shared. “For most of our relationship, it hasn’t mattered because there weren’t kids at home.”
Challenges of IVF Treatment
In addition to the challenges of a long-distance marriage, Holland has faced a significant emotional toll due to her IVF journey. She has undergone 12 rounds of IVF treatment over the past four years. “This year has been a rollercoaster. It’s been so difficult. There’s been a lot of loss, whether it’s miscarriages or failed rounds [of IVF],” Holland revealed.
The emotional and physical strain of IVF has been overwhelming for Holland. “It’s physically, mentally, financially taxing,” she noted. “If you knew eventually it was all gonna be worth it, you’d do anything to make that your reality—if that’s what you want for your life.” The uncertainty surrounding her treatment has compounded her stress, making it challenging to balance work and personal aspirations.
Holland first gained recognition as Miss World Australia in 2013 and is also a classically trained soprano. She recently performed at Sydney’s Carols In The Domain and continues to host cricket coverage for major tournaments, including the Indian Premier League and the Pakistan Super League.
Through her candid revelations, Holland highlights the difficulties many couples face when balancing personal dreams with professional commitments. Her story resonates with those navigating similar paths, illustrating the unique challenges of love, ambition, and the quest for family.
