The BBC star shot to fame through the present’s heyday within the 90s.
Lize Van der Walt lifeless: Gladiators legend dies after tragic most cancers battle (Picture: ITV)
Gladiators star Lize van der Walt has died on the age of 60. The athlete is finest remembered for showing on the UK model of the BBC present after she joined the sequence in 1997. In a heartbreaking tribute shared on the Gladiators official Fb account they provided their condolences to the beloved “golden woman”, aptly named Gold.
In an announcement shared on Monday, the message started: “We’re deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of Gladiators’ golden woman, Gold (Lize Van der Walt).
We use your sign-up to supply content material in methods you have consented to and to enhance our understanding of you. This will likely embody adverts from us and third events primarily based on our understanding. You may unsubscribe at any time. Learn our Privateness Coverage
“Lize joined the UK Gladiators in 1997, bringing energy, spirit and willpower to the Area. Chosen from hundreds of candidates to turn into one of many present’s new Gladiators, she rapidly made her mark. Though damage restricted her appearances, she confirmed unimaginable resilience and when she did compete, she proved that every one that glistens really was Gold.
Initially from South Africa, Lize was a proficient athlete lengthy earlier than Gladiators, excelling within the 400m and relay. Her adventurous spirit introduced her to the UK, the place she turned a part of Gladiators historical past.”
It continued: “She returned to the Area in 2000 to characterize the UK towards her residence nation. A proud full-circle second that mirrored her energy and character.
“Following her time on Gladiators, Lize returned residence to Hermanus in South Africa, a stupendous coastal city recognized for its breathtaking views and sunsets. There, she constructed a brand new life as a profitable artist, creating seascapes and semi-abstract work impressed by her environment.”
The tribute concluded: “After an extended and courageous battle with most cancers, Lize handed away on nineteenth April in South Africa, aged 60. Our ideas are along with her son Michael, her household, associates and all who knew and beloved her.
Thanks for the reminiscences, Lize. You’ll all the time be a part of Gladiators historical past.”
Lize Van der Walt lifeless: Tributes poured in for the Gladiators legend (Picture: BBC)
Devastated followers flocked to the remark part as they paid tribute to the Gladiators star.
One penned: “Very unhappy. 60 isn’t any age.” One other remarked: “I’m very sorry to listen to of the passing of Lize. Although my watching of the Gladiators had been extra intermittent within the late 90s in comparison with the early 90s, Lize was a confirmed athelete and an amazing a part of the Gladiator roster.”
A 3rd wrote: “That is so unhappy, my ideas are with the household at this terrible time.”
The British version of the gameshow ran from 1992 till 2000 adopted by a quick revival in 2008. In 2024, the hit 90s present returned to BBC screens for the primary time in over 20 years.
Leave a Reply