Zack George has become one of the UK’s most recognisable faces in fitness, television, and now, an emotive figure at the heart of national headlines. Known to millions as “Steel” on the BBC’s hit reboot of Gladiators, Zack George is a CrossFit champion, media personality, and inspiration to aspiring athletes. Yet recent months have seen him step into the spotlight for deeply personal reasons, opening up about family tragedy and the true nature of resilience. As his story continues to trend in UK searches, it highlights not just sporting achievements, but the complexity and strength found in vulnerability.
From Overweight Teen to UK CrossFit Champion
Born in Leicester in 1990 to a family with Guyanese and British roots, Zack George’s fitness journey was fuelled by self-transformation. As a child, he struggled with his weight, recalling a diet heavy in fast food and sweets. By age 13, he described himself as “massively overweight.” Everything changed around fourteen, when he resolved to take ownership of his health—an early sign of his trademark determination.
Zack George’s efforts paid off dramatically: he became a leading figure in UK CrossFit, securing the UK title in the 2020 CrossFit Open. That year, Men’s Health dubbed him “The Fittest Man in Britain,” and his achievements placed him 26th globally out of 126,461 athletes. His competitive career included opening his own gym, CrossFit BFG in Leicester, and regular appearances in high-profile fitness events and television programmes. For many, he served as proof that transformation is possible, no matter your starting point.
Gladiators, Media, and Mainstream Fame
In early 2024, Zack George’s career reached British living rooms as he took up the role of Steel in BBC One’s Gladiators revival. Audiences embraced his mixture of approachable charm and formidable physical presence. Known for feats like surprising commuters at Sheffield railway station with fellow Gladiators, and recognised for his work on shows from Blue Peter to Comic Relief, George’s profile soared.
Zack George’s success went far beyond strength. He released his first book, “Start Where Others Stop: 9 Strategies for Optimising Your Mind,” in 2021, encouraging others to seek mental as well as physical fitness. He became a familiar face at events like Truckfest and continued to push boundaries as a Hyrox athlete, placing himself repeatedly in the public eye as a role model willing to be open about his challenges as much as his triumphs.
Personal Tragedy and Public Vulnerability
Zack George’s most recent headlines stem not from victory, but unimaginable loss. In March 2025, he and wife Samantha suffered the premature birth of their son, Leo, at just 22 weeks. Despite fighting for life, Leo passed away in his parents’ arms after 13 days in hospital. George has spoken candidly about his grief. On ITV’s Loose Women, he explained the heartbreak of only holding his son when he passed away and his regrets about not doing so sooner out of fear at Leo’s fragility.
Both Zack and Samantha have described their son’s brief life as hugely meaningful, sharing how talking, touching, and simply being present seemed to comfort Leo during his final days. The couple, already parents to daughter Freya, released a moving statement, calling Leo “our lion” and speaking of the abundance of positivity and love he brought into their lives, no matter how short his time with them.
Zack George’s openness on national television prompted widespread public and media support. Fellow celebrities, including Myleene Klass, praised the couple for helping break the taboo around baby loss and for their courage in expressing grief publicly—a move which, many say, will help others experiencing similar pain feel less alone.
The Power of Speaking Out
Beneath Zack George’s immense physical strength lies emotional openness that resonates with many Britons. In the aftermath of their loss, he remarked that Leo showed “the true definition of strength,” and expressed gratitude that his son made it clear when he was ready to go, sparing the parents the impossible choice of ending his fight.
His tribute on social media was similarly heartfelt, as he wrote, “You brought us a lifetime of love … you showed us what the true definition of strength is and we are so proud of you”. The UK public’s reaction, mixing sorrow and admiration, speaks volumes about George’s positive influence—making him a key figure in ongoing national conversations about parenthood, loss, and resilience.
Life Beyond Headlines: Still a Champion
Despite personal hardships, George has continued to advocate for fitness, mental wellbeing, and personal growth. His gym in Leicester remains popular, and he still appears at fitness events, inspiring many with stories of overcoming adversity. In the public eye, he effortlessly switches between the role of motivator and someone learning, grieving, and coping one day at a time.
Returning to projects like Gladiators, George balances his career and family life in the face of loss. Fellow athletes and TV personalities have extended their support, showing the camaraderie within sporting and entertainment communities. His story stands as a reminder that strength is about more than physical ability—it is equally about courage, honesty, and compassion.
Conclusion: A British Role Model in Every Sense
Zack George, now trending for his vulnerability as much as his athletic achievements, sits at a unique intersection of public life in the UK. His candid reflections on loss and the ongoing journey of healing have been widely praised, helping to change conversations around grief and emotional support. For many British families grappling with hardship, George’s example encourages openness, dialogue, and seeking support when needed.
His journey—from an overweight child in Leicester to “Steel” on Gladiators, CrossFit champion, author, and, above all, a loving father—demonstrates that true strength emerges from facing adversity head-on. As the UK continues to follow his story, Zack George stands as a modern British role model: one whose impact stretches well beyond sport, into the deepest aspects of what it means to be resilient in today’s world.
Read more: cpi
