“I’m entertaining the country” is a tongue-in-cheek line from legendary footballer Wayne Rooney in episode 1 of The Real Rooneys, but for years, it was arguably a fact. For over a decade, Rooney was Manchester United and England’s star striker, scoring countless goals and mesmerising fans week after week. During these prime years, as is often the case for a footballer’s partner, his wife Coleen remained largely in the background of her husband’s stardom.
In recent years, however, Coleen’s notoriety has grown through reality shows, her fashion work, and the infamous “Wagatha Christie” case. Now, the famous couple has joined forces for Disney+’s The Real Rooneys, opening the doors to their lives in classic, overly dramatised reality-TV show fashion.
The series kicks off with Coleen and Wayne at a crossroads in their lives and careers, as the pair seemingly swap roles. Wayne has been sacked as Plymouth Argyle’s manager and is now contemplating a future without football. Coleen, however, is making a potential career-changing move by partnering with Primark for her own clothing line. From a narrative perspective, it’s an effective place to start as it serves as an interesting hook. This is enhanced by immediate comedic moments, such as one of the four sons interrupting Coleen’s interview to ask what is for dinner. The quick injection of comedy also highlights how essential humour is in guiding this series, rather than genuine (or exaggerated) drama.
Although this new series feels like a vehicle to enhance Coleen’s career, her husband is once again the duo’s shining star. Wayne Rooney’s fans get an intimate look beyond the football pitch, and thankfully, Rooney doesn’t shy away from being authentically himself. Audiences see a father embarrassing his kids, a man happily lounging around in tracksuits, and a husband blissfully unaware of day-to-day stresses his wife tries to navigate. A perfect illustration is Wayne’s insistence that Coleen design pyjamas that have pockets, ranting that pyjamas without pockets are “stupid.” In addition to the entertainment value he brings, the football legend’s relatability is what sets him apart, making his moments all the more enjoyable.
Football fans also receive a treat through fantastic behind-the-scenes interactions when Wayne takes part in BBC’s broadcast of the 2025 FA Cup final. Also, the episode’s most compelling moment comes in an almost cinematic sequence, where Wayne breaks down the emotion of scoring in front of 80, 000 fans. One may argue it’s the episode’s most dramatic scene, an element that’s largely lacking elsewhere.
Coleen’s story regarding her decision to join Primark will suffice for reality TV fans, especially those who want a glance into the lives of their favourite celebrities. But if this was intended to be one of the episode’s leading charges to generate tension, it misses the mark. Unlike her husband’s genuine personality and relatable human traits, audiences will struggle to connect with a very wealthy woman’s stress (in her multimillion-pound home) concerning an incredible career opportunity. In these parts, one cannot help but feel they are suffering through a heavy dose of corny storytelling, as is often the norm for reality TV.
Disney+’s latest series is not a flawless offering, but it’s surprisingly genuine and funny in moments. Also, it appears the show has no issue catering to fans who will tune in regardless, especially with what is being teased for future episodes. So whether you’re a fan of football/Wayne Rooney, Coleen, or just reality TV in general, there seems to be something for everyone. If nothing else, The Real Rooneys can certainly serve as breezy, pastime television.
One out of ten episodes were available for review.
The Real Rooneys is out now on Disney+.
