Heartbreak as Gladiators Star Steel’s Premature Baby Dies After Just 23 Weeks

Steel, a star from the show “Gladiators,” announced tragically that his newborn son Leo passed away on Tuesday. He had been born extremely prematurely at only 23 weeks.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m sharing some personal news with you all. Over the weekend, my little miracle arrived earlier than expected. He’s petite, delicate, and exhibiting remarkable courage in the face of adversity. He’s currently putting up a brave fight, and your positive thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated.

On Instagram, the well-known character from the popular BBC show, the Gladiators icon often called Steel by fans, announced that his spouse, Samantha, gave birth prematurely a month ago.

On Tuesday, Zack shared the heartbreaking news about Leo’s passing through an Instagram post: “Your mother brought you into life, and your father was there as you departed. Leo… You demonstrated for us the genuine essence of resilience, and we couldn’t be more proud of you.

In your brief presence among us, you radiated an incredible amount of positivity that touched us deeply. We truly appreciated feeling that warmth and joy you spread, and for that, we are extremely grateful.

Zack went on: “Though your stay with us was brief, you filled our lives with eternal affection. We appreciate that you signaled it was time to end the struggle. We’re eternally thankful that we weren’t the ones who had to decide that for you.

‘Leo our lion, we love you more than you will ever know. Rest easy our little boy.’

A friendly message of support was left on their post by fellow Gladiator Joey Fishburn, who expressed, “I can hardly fathom your sorrow, sending you and your loved ones all the warmth of love and tranquility during these challenging moments!

Montell Douglas added: ‘RIP baby Leo. Thoughts and prayers and with both of you.’

Earlier this Sunday, Samantha posted a heartwarming photo showing little Leo’s hand on hers, and Zack later re-posted it on his page.

She penned in the caption: ‘Thank you everyone for your kind words and premature baby stories. 

‘Please keep them coming… they are giving us so much hope for our precious Leo.’

In their announcement on Saturday they said: ‘Our Precious Boy Leo George ♥️

Despite being expected to remain inside your mother’s womb until a later date, it was on the 26th of March, 2025 that you made your entrance into the world instead. At only 23 weeks old, you weighed an astonishing 1 pound and 8 ounces.

‘Sudden changes can catch us off guard, but there’s one truth we can always rely on – you possess an incredible strength. You’re already proving that you can overcome the challenges life throws your way.’

He concluded the post with: ‘Tiny, fragile and fighting #Family #Leo #WeLoveYou.’

Supporters and past Strictly contestants, including Montell Douglas (also known as Fire), flooded the comments with encouragement, saying: “Little Leo has the toughest genes I’ve ever seen! Keep going, my friend ❤️.

Meanwhile, Diamond’s Livi Sheldon added: ‘Sending all the love and hugs to you all ❤️❤️❤️.’ 

In January, Zack announced that he and Samantha were expecting their second child. 

The bodybuilder took to Instagram with a sweet post alongside daughter Ivy, 23-months.

With a smile, the young one proudly displayed the ultrasound image, and Zack exclaimed that the tiny child appeared “thrilled” or “eager” to become an older sibling.

He wrote: ‘Ivy is really looking forward to getting a new friend shortly, little George version 2 on the way’

Supporters and fellow combatants quickly flooded the comments section, expressing their well-wishes. Montell, also known as Fire, wrote: ‘How delightful! My favorites have grown even larger. Congratulations everyone!’

In a different wording: Jamie Christian (Giant) expressed his excitement saying, “Wow, this is fantastic news! Congratulations everyone,” while Jamie Campbell (Bionic) simply conveyed his congratulations.

In September 2024, Samantha got married to her muscular partner. Beyond being a bride, she’s also a bodybuilder who frequently posts photos on Instagram showcasing her toned figure and workout routines.

Previously, Zack discussed his journey from living an unhealthy lifestyle during his younger years to undergoing a fitness transformation.

As a kid, he was significantly heavier and confessed to The Sun that he consumed enormous amounts of chocolate and frequently dined at McDonald’s and KFC, often finishing a family-sized bucket five times a week. The more fast food he ate, the stronger his desire for it became, creating a harmful cycle.

Carrying excess weight can make you feel less than optimal. It limits your ability to move around freely, reducing your desire to engage in physical activities like walking or running for long distances. This lack of exercise can lead to a reliance on quick, unhealthy meals as a source of comfort.

However, Zack found himself motivated to adopt healthier habits not long after. Once he caught the fitness bug, he grew passionate about CrossFit – a workout style that emphasizes performing practical, intense movements.

He now trains four hours a day, six days per week, with the results visible in his ripped physique.

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2025-04-08 19:34

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