Gladiators star Steel's tribute to son after death

Zack George paid tribute to his son Leo on Instagram

A star of BBC show Gladiators has announced the death of his son days after he was born prematurely.

Zack George, who plays Steel, described his son Leo as "our lion" in an Instagram post.

The 34-year-old, from Leicester, said he and his wife Samantha would "love you more than you will ever know".

Mr George, a CrossFit athlete, won the title of the UK's Fittest Man in 2020 and joined the first series of the rebooted BBC show in 2024.

He and his wife also have a daughter called Ivy.

In his post announcing the news, he said: "Your mummy brought you into this world and your daddy held you as you left.

"Leo, you showed us what the true definition of strength is and we are so proud of you.

"You brought so much positivity to the world with the short time you were with us and we felt that positivity in abundance, we thank you all so much for that.

"Although you were only with us for a short time, you brought us a lifetime of love.

"Thank you for letting us know that you had had enough of this fight.

"We will forever be grateful that we didn't have to make that decision for you."

Friends also sent their condolences to the couple.

JLS star JB Gill said: "Heartbreaking, what a little warrior, thoughts and prayers to you both and your family."

Fellow Gladiators star Montell Douglas, who plays Fire in the show, added: "RIP baby Leo. Thoughts and prayers are with you both."

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can visit the BBC Action Line for help.