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Heartbreak as Gladiators star Steel’s premature baby Leo dies at just 23 weeks

BBG News

As a lifestyle expert, I find myself deeply moved by the heartfelt tributes pouring in for my dear friend and fellow Gladiator, ‘Steel.’ Recently, he bravely opened up about the loss of his newborn son, Leo. My thoughts and prayers are with him during this incredibly difficult time as we all share in his grief.

34-year-old Zack George, popularly recognized as “Steel” among viewers of the acclaimed BBC series, revealed in March that his wife Samantha had unexpectedly given birth prematurely. At only 23 weeks, baby Zack made his entrance into the world.

But in a heartbreaking update on Tuesday, Zack shared the tragic news that Leo had passed away. 

Condolences poured in from Zack’s fellow actors, with Strictly contestant Montell Douglas (Fire) posting: ‘Farewell little Leo. My thoughts and prayers are with you both @zackgeorge @samanthalouisegeorge_.’

Ella-Mae Rayner (Comet), expressed her deep empathy, saying, “I simply can’t fathom what you’re experiencing right now. I’m sending you a world full of love and strength. Know that we are all here to support you ❤️❤️.

In the meantime, Jodie Ounsley (Fury) expressed, “I truly feel my heart aching for the two of you. Sending you lots of love and warmth ❤️.

Matty Campbell, also known as Bionic, expressed his sadness and support by saying, “This is heart-wrenching. We’re all standing with you.” Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Nitro) echoed the sentiment, stating, “I’m so sorry!! You can always count on me to be here for you.

In a friendly exchange, Alex Gray, affectionately called Apollo, and Jade Packer (Electro), expressed warmth as follows: Apollo transmits an abundance of love and light to Leo.

Other stars sympathized with the couple along with JLS member JB Gill, expressing his sorrow by saying, ‘It’s heart-wrenching; she’s such a courageous fighter. My thoughts and well wishes go out to you both and your entire family.’

It was sad to learn about this, I’m sending you both a double dose of love 💖💖, commented Adam Collard from Love Island, with John Whaite, chef and Strictly star, saying: ‘Sending lots of love your way. I’m deeply sorry.’

Internet personality Safiyya Vorajee, who sadly lost her daughter Azaylia to leukemia at the tender age of eight months in April 2021, likewise offered a heartfelt tribute as well.

She expressed: ‘I truly sense your grief. I’m deeply sorry for the loss you’ve experienced. Please take care of yourselves, and remember that little Leo continues to shine, watching over you like a protective guardian angel. Sending you all the love I have.’

‘This is heartbreaking you’re in our thoughts,’ Jedward added.

Last month, Zack announced on Instagram that his wife, Samantha, was unexpectedly giving birth early.

On Tuesday, Zack shared the heartbreaking news about the passing of his son, expressing it on Instagram with these words: “Your mother was the one who welcomed you into life, and I was the one to cradle you as you departed.

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

‘Your brief presence was filled with an overwhelming amount of positivity that touched us deeply. We’re incredibly grateful for the uplifting energy you shared.’

Zack went on to say: ‘Even though your stay with us was brief, you filled our lives with an abundance of love that will last a lifetime. We are grateful that you showed us you were ready to step away from the struggle.’

“We are eternally thankful that we weren’t the ones who had to face that difficult choice for you, dear Leo. Our affection for you transcends any understanding; you are deeply cherished. May you find peace, our sweet cub.

Earlier, Samantha posted an adorable picture showing Leo’s little hand on her finger that was subsequently reposted by Zack on his account, updating fans during the afternoon.

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 ♥️

Originally, you were meant to stay cozily in your mother’s womb until a later date, but surprisingly, you made an early appearance on March 26, 2025, at only 23 weeks. At the time of birth, you weighed just 1 pound and 8 ounces.

‘Life can suddenly change in unexpected ways, but there’s one fact we’re certain about – you’re incredibly resilient, already overcoming obstacles that others might find insurmountable.’

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

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 youngest family member proudly displayed the ultrasound picture, and Zack exclaimed that the baby seemed ‘thrilled’ about becoming an older sibling.

He wrote: ‘Ivy is extremely eager to get a new friend soon, as another Little George is on the way.’

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2025-04-09 04:06

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