The father of BBC Gladiators star Fury has died suddenly after collapsing while hiking in the Yorkshire Dales.
A Sudden Collapse on a Familiar Path
Phil Ounsley, aged 56, was climbing Pen-y-Ghent, one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks, on Sunday when the tragedy occurred. The mixed martial arts expert and keen charity fundraiser is suspected to have suffered a fatal heart attack.
His daughter, television personality Jodie Ounsley – known to millions as Fury on the rebooted Gladiators show – shared the devastating news on Instagram. She described her father as her "absolute hero".
A Daughter's Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional post, Jodie Ounsley wrote: "Heartbroken. Yesterday, my dad suddenly passed away while doing one of his favourite things—walking Pen-y-Ghent."
She revealed the profound shock of the loss, noting he had scaled that particular peak "countless times throughout his life". "All I can say is that he was, and always will be, my absolute hero," she continued. "He encouraged me to dream big and loved me wholeheartedly, and for that I will be forever grateful."
A Life of Fitness and Charity Cut Short
A source close to the family told The Sun that Phil's death had sent shockwaves through his community. "Phil was perfectly fit and healthy. His death has come as such a shock to all who knew him," they said.
The source painted a picture of a dedicated family man and altruist: "He was such a genuinely great guy and did a lot for charity. And he was always exercising and pushing himself to help others. Phil is the last person you would expect something like this to happen to due to the lifestyle he lived."
The family, including Phil's wife Jo and son Jack, are said to be "obviously devastated" by the unexpected loss.
