Gladiators star Steel and his wife Samantha have announced the heartbreaking death of their son Leo, who was born at 23 weeks old. The couple welcomed their son into the world just a few days ago and decided to name his Leo the lion, due to his corrageous fight to live despite being born prematurely.

Samantha and Steel - whose real name is Zack George - had been updating their loyal legion of fans about their son's health online. But on Tuesday (April 8), they shared the tragic loss of their newborn son, praising his "true definition of strength" in his short life. In a post shared on Instagram, Zack and Samantha wrote: "Your mummy brought you into this world and your daddy held you as you left. Leo... you showed us what the true definition of strength is and we are so proud of you.

"You brought so much positivity to the world with the short time you were with us and we felt that positivity in abundance, we thank you all so much for that. Although you were only with us for a short time, you brought us a lifetime of love."

They added: "Thank you for letting us know that YOU had had enough of this fight. We will forever be grateful that we didn't have to make that decision for you. Leo our lion, we love you more than you will ever know. Rest easy out little boy."

Baby Leo was born last week weighin just two pounds. In a post at the time, Zack shared the surprising news online. He wrote: "Our Precious Boy Leo George [heart emoji].

"You should still be tucked up inside mummy's tummy but instead you entered the world on the 26th March 2025 at just 23 weeks weighing 1 pound 8 ounces.

"You never truly know how quickly your life can be turned upside down but one thing we do know is that you are one hell of a strong boy and you are already defying the odds."

In the emotional post, he simply penned: "Tiny, fragile and fighting" in response to his brave son continuing to fight. Following their devastating update, friends and fans have flooded to the coments to share their love and send their sympathies to the family online.

One user penned: "Sending all the love, stay strong guys" while another added: "Can't imagine your heartache, wishing you and your family nothing but love and peace throughout this time! Leo the legend."

A third wrote: "Sending all our love your way! I'm so sorry" as a fourth echoed: "I'm so sorry, I'm sending you all so mych love and healing. " A fifth chimed in with: "So sorry for your loss. Thoughts with you and your family."

If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at childbereavementuk.org or you can call them on 0800 02 888 40.