Gold from original BBC Gladiators series dies aged 60 after cancer diagnosis

Gladiators star Lize Van der Walt, known as Gold from the original BBC series, has died aged 60.

Van Der Walt rose to fame when she joined the sports entertainment gameshow in 1997, five years after its original launch.

The TV star was on the programme for one series, joining the likes of Falcon, Lightning, Rhino and Saracen to demonstrate her athletic prowess opposite members of the public who believed they could take on the mighty Gladiators.

‘We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gladiators’ golden girl, Gold,’ the heartfelt message read.

‘Lize joined the UK Gladiators in 1997, bringing strength, spirit and determination to the Arena.

Chosen from thousands of applicants to become one of the show’s new Gladiators, she quickly made her mark.

Although injury limited her appearances, she showed incredible resilience and when she did compete, she proved that all that glistens truly was Gold.’
Originally from South Africa, Van der Walt was described as a ‘talented athlete long before Gladiators’, excelling in the 400m and relay.

The statement continued: ‘Her adventurous spirit brought her to the UK, where she became part of Gladiators history.’
‘Our thoughts are with her son Michael, her family, friends and all who knew and loved her.

Thank you for the memories, Lize.

You will always be part of Gladiators history,’ the statement concluded.

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