Gladiator Nitro's life off camera as Olympian and millionaire as he joins Strictly
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, known for his Olympic sprinting and his role on Gladiators: Epic Pranks, surprised viewers by becoming the first confirmed celebrity for Strictly Come Dancing 2025.
The announcement was cleverly delivered during a live segment on CBBC Newsround, where Harry disguised himself as the acclaimed choreographer Nicky Trott on Monday morning.
Appearing in character, Harry was set to discuss Nicky's recent collaboration with scientists on a study exploring the benefits of daily dancing.
However, Newsround presenter Jenny Lawrence quickly saw through the costume and revealed the true identity of her guest. It comes after Strictly fans were left disappointed as one star pulled out of a main role ahead of the series launch.
Dropping the disguise, Harry shared the real reason for his visit: he's signed up to compete in the next series of Strictly Come Dancing! This marks his exciting debut on the popular BBC show.
Produced by BBC Studios, the new season of Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this September, promising another thrilling lineup of celebrities and professional dancers.
Harry, 36, who is a champion sprinter, has been a top competitor in the UK from his youth.
At just 17, he made history by becoming the first athlete to clinch gold in both the 100 and 200 metres at the World Youth Championships, earning him the title of 2005 BBC Young Sports Personality Of The Year. "I was gifted from a young age," he remarked.
As he matured, this athletic dynamo secured gold in the 4x100 metres relay at both the European Championships and Commonwealth Games. His accolades include being a two-time Olympian and a World Bronze Medallist, among numerous other sporting triumphs.
He previously admitted that he draws inspiration from Muhammad Ali, with Harry expressing: "When the odds were against him and people didn't think that he'd be as successful as he was, that's one of the things that drives me. Sometimes in the face of adversity you've just got to drive through it."
Now in his mid-thirties, Harry juggles his role as an online fitness coach, managing a thriving app, with his ongoing commitment to athletics. His estimated net worth stands at £3.9 million.
The athlete towers at 5ft 11ins and boasts thighs measuring a remarkable 25ins around. His diet is predominantly protein-heavy, with steak for breakfast and cured meat snacks.
"I've been blessed with good genetics, obviously," Harry shared last year with Men's Health magazine.
Growing up in Leicestershire, he was an avid fan of the original Gladiators series, and he described being part of the new show as "a childhood dream come true".
"You think: 'Gosh, I played those games in the estate where I grew up and I've got the opportunity to actually bring it to life," he remarked. "It's a celebration of what we are and what we've done."
Harry enjoys a strong social media presence with an impressive 299,000 followers on Instagram and frequently uploads popular workout videos to YouTube.
In addition to fitness content, the father occasionally posts charming photos of his young daughter Aubreé-Isla, whom he affectionately calls his "Mini Me".
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