A dramatic episode of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins on Channel 4 saw a staggering three contestants withdraw from the brutal military-style selection process, culminating in an emotional victory for singer Gareth Gates.
Triple Exit in Demanding Challenges
The episode, which aired on Monday 19 January 2026, pushed the celebrity recruits to their absolute limits. Their tasks involved navigating a hostile village under simulated fire to gather vital equipment, followed by a race against the clock to push stalled vehicles to an extraction point.
The pressure proved too much for three participants. Ryan Moloney, best known for his long-running role in Neighbours, made the decision to leave voluntarily. He cited serious mental health concerns, confessing he felt he was 'mentally spiralling' and was uncertain if he had taken his prescribed ADHD medication.
In a separate incident, former England cricketer Graeme Swann was medically withdrawn by the show's directing staff. His exit came after he sustained a significant arm injury during one of the physically gruelling challenges.
The third departure was British sprinter and bobsledder Toby Olubi. He was also withdrawn by the directing staff following an intensely demanding task that required recruits to rescue a hostage and retrieve a laptop while working against the clock.
Gareth Gates' Emotional Victory
Amid the high-profile exits, the series reached its climax. Pop star Gareth Gates was declared the winner, breaking down in tears as he received the news from the show's formidable directing staff.
His win underscored the immense psychological and physical endurance required to complete the SAS selection course, even in its celebrity format.
Mack Horton's Powerful Testimony
The episode also featured a poignant moment from Australian former Olympic swimmer, Mack Horton. He recounted the severe real-world repercussions he faced after his 2019 protest, where he refused to share a podium with Chinese swimmer Sun Yang.
Horton described how the fallout impacted his family's safety, revealing they were followed and experienced intrusions into their home. This testimony added a layer of gravity to the show's exploration of resilience and personal conviction under pressure.
The series continues to be a ratings hit for Channel 4, demonstrating the public's fascination with watching well-known figures endure one of television's toughest reality formats.
