\n Gold (Lize Van der Walt) is originally from South Africa where she won a gold medal in the 400 metres at the age of 21.\n<\/p>\n
\n She moved to the UK, where she started as a fitness trainer, before joining Gladiators in 1997.\n<\/p>\n
Former Gladiator star Gold dies aged 60<\/p>\n
\n Gold (Van der Walt) died at the age of 60 on Sunday (April 19) after a “long and brave” battle with cancer.\n<\/p>\n
\n A post on the official Gladiators Facebook page said: “We\u2019re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gladiators\u2019 golden girl, Gold (Lize Van der Walt)\n<\/p>\n
\n “Lize joined the UK Gladiators in 1997, bringing strength, spirit and determination to the Arena.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Chosen from thousands of applicants to become one of the show\u2019s new Gladiators, she quickly made her mark.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Although injury limited her appearances, she showed incredible resilience and when she did compete, she proved that all that glistens truly was Gold.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Originally from South Africa, Lize was a talented athlete long before Gladiators, excelling in the 400m and relay.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Her adventurous spirit brought her to the UK, where she became part of Gladiators history.\n<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\n “She returned to the Arena in 2000 to represent the UK against her home nation. A proud full-circle moment that reflected her strength and character.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Following her time on Gladiators, Lize returned home to Hermanus in South Africa, a beautiful coastal town known for its breathtaking views and sunsets.\n<\/p>\n
\n “There, she built a new life as a successful artist, creating seascapes and semi-abstract work inspired by her surroundings.\n<\/p>\n
\n “After a long and brave battle with cancer, Lize passed away on 19th April in South Africa, aged 60.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Our thoughts are with her son Michael, her family, friends and all who knew and loved her.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Thank you for the memories, Lize. You will always be part of Gladiators history.”\n<\/p>\n
Who were the original Gladiators from the 90s?<\/p>\n
\n Gladiators made a successful return to TV in 2024 after being rebooted by the BBC.\n<\/p>\n
\n The show, hosted by Bradley and Barney Walsh, has just completed its third season and features the likes of Giant, Bionic<\/a>, Cyclone, and Athena<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n<\/p>\n