The BBC star shot to fame during the show’s heyday in the 90s.
Lize Van der Walt dead: Gladiators legend dies after tragic cancer battle (Image: ITV)
Gladiators star Lize van der Walt has died at the age of 60. The athlete is best remembered for appearing on the UK version of the BBC show after she joined the series in 1997. In a heartbreaking tribute shared on the Gladiators official Facebook account they offered their condolences to the beloved “golden girl”, aptly named Gold.
In a statement shared on Monday, the message began: “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gladiators’ golden girl, Gold (Lize Van der Walt).
“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, Lize was a talented athlete long before Gladiators, excelling in the 400m and relay. Her adventurous spirit brought her to the UK, where she became part of Gladiators history.”
It continued: “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.
“Following her time on Gladiators, Lize returned home to Hermanus in South Africa, a beautiful coastal town known for its breathtaking views and sunsets. There, she built a new life as a successful artist, creating seascapes and semi-abstract work inspired by her surroundings.”
The tribute concluded: “After a long and brave battle with cancer, Lize passed away on 19th April in South Africa, aged 60. 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.”
Lize Van der Walt dead: Tributes poured in for the Gladiators legend (Image: BBC)
Devastated fans flocked to the comment section as they paid tribute to the Gladiators star.
One penned: “Very sad. 60 is no age.” Another remarked: “I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Lize. Though my watching of the Gladiators had been more intermittent in the late 90s compared to the early 90s, Lize was a proven athelete and a great part of the Gladiator roster.”
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A third wrote: “That’s so sad, my thoughts are with the family at this awful time.”
The British edition of the gameshow ran from 1992 until 2000 followed by a brief revival in 2008. In 2024, the hit 90s show returned to BBC screens for the first time in over 20 years.
