Gladiators star Apollo, known off-screen as Alex Gray, has opened up about the heartbreaking reason behind his relentless drive to succeed. The former rugby union and NFL player credits his late uncle, a professional rugby player who died from leukaemia at age 33, as his lifelong inspiration. Alex turned 33 last year and vowed to make the most of every moment, a promise he continues to fulfill.
A Life of Determination
Alex Gray, 33, has built an impressive career spanning rugby union for England Sevens, Newcastle Falcons, and Bath Rugby, as well as a stint in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons. Now a household name on the BBC show Gladiators, he is venturing into music, a passion he has long harboured but only now has the time to explore fully.
Reflecting on his journey, Alex said: "My world has just expanded. While I believed in being able to achieve the impossible, the scope now is so much wider. Going onto the show with the Gladiators and now getting into the music world, hopefully that'll continue to progress."
Staying True to Himself
For Alex, staying authentic is paramount. He explained: "I now know the difference between what I am and who I am. What I am has always been the rugby player, the NFL player, the Gladiator, the musician. But who I am has been very consistent: an ambitious dreamer, hardworking, loves his family, wants to do good by the world."
He acknowledges the rarity of a complete career change in one's 30s, calling it "scary" but embracing it as part of the human experience. "I've been put in so many lucky positions," he said. "If I'm to get a chance to be a Gladiator, I'm going to do it."
Music and Mental Health
Alex has teamed up with fellow Gladiator Dynamite (Emily Steel) for their single "You Found Me." The duo previously collaborated on a cover of "Cowboys Cry Too" for mental health awareness. Alex noted that music has always been in his blood, with his father's side of the family being musically talented, including a cousin who DJ'ed at Glastonbury.
Inspired by artists like Kings of Leon, Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, Benson Boone, and MGK, Alex is finding his own voice. He is also passionate about breaking the stigma around male mental health, saying: "It's a tough world out there for everybody. Redefining what actual masculinity looks like—being responsible, open, emotionally available, but still strong—is super important."
The Gladiators Experience
Alex admitted he was unprepared for the show's massive success. "I knew it would be big, but I didn't realise how big," he said. "We get feedback like, 'You've brought the family back together.' It's been a hugely rewarding journey." He recalled his first time walking out in spandex to a roaring arena as "mind-blowing," even compared to playing in front of 90,000 sports fans.
With more music likely on the horizon, Alex continues to honour his uncle's legacy by living life to the fullest. "You Found Me" by Emily Steel and Alex Gray is available on all major platforms now.
