“This wasn’t just a game for me. It was a shot at financial freedom.” — Rob Roman

I had the amazing opportunity to chat with Rob Roman, one of the breakout stars of the new reality competition series hosted by Shang-Chi star Simu Liu, the energy in the room was magnetic. Fresh off filming a series that pits 20 contestants—ranging from reality TV royalty like Spencer Pratt, Omarosa, and Cynthia Bailey—against each other in a high-stakes battle for up to $1 million, Rob brings a blend of intensity, humility, and undeniable charm that makes him hard to ignore.

And while he might be labeled the “rookie” among seasoned veterans, don’t let that fool you—Rob Roman is anything but unprepared.

From S.W.A.T. to Simu Liu

Rob’s journey to this moment wasn’t built on camera time or confessionals—it was forged through years of grit. A former SWAT agent and police sergeant, now the founder of HC Roots, a home healthcare company that offers free skilled nursing to medically fragile children, Rob is no stranger to high-stakes environments. But reality TV? That’s a different beast entirely.

“Being a SWAT officer taught me how to lead under pressure,” he shared. “But in law enforcement, it’s about unity. In this show? You’re on your own—and trust can be your biggest weakness.”

That awareness became a game-changer.

Not Starstruck, Just Strategic

“I honestly didn’t recognize most of the reality stars when I walked into the room,” Rob admitted with a laugh. “I thought we were all new to TV.”

That unexpected naivety turned into a secret weapon.

“I wasn’t starstruck. The connections I made were real. I think that helped me play my own game instead of being distracted by reputations.”

And when the stakes are high—like, million-dollars high—every decision counts. “I don’t come from money. This wasn’t just a game to me. It was about helping my mom, who’s on disability after battling cancer, maybe helping my dad retire. When you need the money, not just want it, the pressure hits different.”

From “No New Friends” to Emotional Attachments

Fans of reality competitions know: alliances shift like quicksand. So how did Rob approach the game?

“This was actually my second time on reality TV, after Squid Game: The Challenge. The first time, I told myself I’d play hard and betray if I had to. But I made real friendships and couldn’t bring myself to screw anyone over.”

He tried a different approach this time: “I literally went in saying, ‘No new friends.’ I was gonna charm, connect, then flip the game. But… I caught feelings again. It’s harder than people think. You’re dealing with real people and real emotions.”

Still, there was one game-shifting moment Rob will never forget.

“You’ll see in the trailer—when the first person got eliminated and walked away with money? That flipped a switch. I was like, ‘Take what you can before there’s nothing left.’ I stopped playing defense and started playing to win.”

Clocking the Competition

“I saw Cynthia, Omarosa, and Kim right away and was like, ‘These women are not to be messed with.’ Total queens. Then Rashad and Steven looked like physical beasts, so I knew I had to keep my eyes on them too.”

As the alliances began to shift, Rob says viewers can expect serious fireworks.

“The most intense moments come when those first alliances start to crumble. New ones form. That’s when the whole game changes.”

The Mental Marathon

While physical challenges tested endurance, the real battle was internal.

“This game is nonstop. Even when you sleep—if you sleep—your brain doesn’t turn off. I was up for over 30 hours at one point. You start second-guessing everything—every smile, every side conversation. It’s like emotional warfare.”

Would he go back and change anything?

“I’d sleep more,” he says with a laugh, before adding, “There’s this really emotional scene because I was just exhausted and hit a wall. You’ll see it.”

The Man Behind the Mission

Beyond the cutthroat gameplay and chaotic alliances, Rob’s heart lies in service. His company, HC Roots, is rooted in deep personal purpose.

“I grew up never knowing anyone with a business. Where I’m from, if you got a city job, you made it. But I wanted more. I wanted to help my parents, help my community.”

And he’s done just that. HC Roots provides life-changing services to children in need—and their families.

“When a mom messages me saying she can finally sleep because our nurse is watching over her child? That’s when I know we’re doing something important.”

Overcoming the Odds

Rob’s journey hasn’t been without its own health battles. Diagnosed with Meniere’s disease, he spent 18 months nearly bedridden and endured inner ear surgery.

“I thought everything was over. But once I healed, I promised myself I’d live without limits. Competing on this show, running my business, speaking publicly—these are all things I’m doing because I can. And I don’t take that for granted.”

So, What’s Next?

“I want to do more reality TV. It’s competitive, it’s fun, and it’s a platform to keep sharing my story. But one of my biggest goals right now is to be hired as a public speaker. I’ve got something to say, and I want to reach people.”

And if he wins the million?

“I’m helping my mom, helping my dad, clearing my debt, investing, and setting up my three best friends. And yeah—I’ll enjoy the rest.”

Three Words to Describe Rob’s Game?

“Loyal. Resourceful. Exciting.”

We couldn’t agree more.

Photography Credit: @mutedawolf / Muted Production