Gladiators' Sabre Opens Up About Emotional Decision to Join BBC Show
Sheli McCoy, who stars as Sabre on the revived BBC series Gladiators, has exclusively revealed the heartfelt reason behind her decision to join the program. In an interview, the 37-year-old explained that fulfilling a childhood dream was not the primary factor; instead, she was driven by a desire to inspire young girls through fitness.
From Childhood Obsession to Gladiator Reality
Growing up in 1990s Scotland, Sheli was obsessed with the show Gladiators, watching it regularly on television. She described herself as an outdoorsy child who loved to play, but her athletic build made her feel body conscious. On Gladiators, she found normalization, admiring the fierce female gladiators who challenged contenders. Now, as Sabre, she gets to embody that strength herself.
The Real Reason Behind Her Yes
When the show rebooted in 2024, Sheli was hesitant due to her busy schedule as the owner of five businesses, which has since grown to seven. However, the production team convinced her by highlighting how the platform could amplify her existing work encouraging young girls in fitness. Sheli states, It was the only reason I said yes. Becoming a role model was all I ever wanted to be. She emphasizes that fame was not a motivator, shying away from social media and premieres, and has no interest in shows like Strictly Come Dancing.
Prioritizing Community Over Celebrity
Away from the spotlight, Sheli is deeply committed to her community. She owns a gym in Dundee and coaches both adults and children, visiting schools weekly to promote fitness. She explains, I'm currently going into two schools a week at the minute, minimum, and coaching kids classes at the gym twice a week. This hands-on work is a priority, and she would need a compelling reason to stop it.
Personal Journey and Empowering Message
Sheli has previously shared how fitness helped her recover from an abusive relationship, giving her control and confidence. To her younger self, she would say: It's okay to take up space, it's okay to be a little bit louder than other girls, it's okay to be a little bit stronger than other girls, and it's okay to want to play sport with boys. Be proud of it. Her story underscores a commitment to empowerment beyond the glitz of television.
