Lize van der Walt, the former Gladiators competitor who performed under the name Gold during the 1990s television series, has passed away following a battle with cancer. She was 60 years old.
The South African-born athlete died on Sunday, April 19, with the announcement made today via the programme's official social media channels.
A statement from the Gladiators page read: "We're deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gladiators' golden girl, Gold."
Van der Walt had been living with a cancer diagnosis since 2013.
She was selected from thousands of hopefuls to join the popular ITV show's roster of competitors, making her first appearance during the sixth series in 1997.
Before her television career, van der Walt had already established herself as an accomplished athlete. Born in South Africa and raised in Switzerland, she demonstrated exceptional talent on the track.
At just 21, she claimed a gold medal in the 400m event in 1987, also competing in relay disciplines.
Her adventurous spirit extended beyond athletics. Van der Walt scaled Table Mountain in her native Cape Town, showcasing the physical prowess that would later define her television appearances.
Lize van der Walt was best known as Gold in the 1990s Gladiators series
|During the 1990s, she made the move to Britain, where she began working as a personal trainer.
It was this career path that would ultimately lead her towards the opportunity that brought her national recognition on Gladiators.
While employed as a fitness instructor in the UK, van der Walt's colleagues noticed her athletic abilities and encouraged her to respond to a casting call seeking new Gladiators performers.
Her application proved successful, with van der Walt beating out thousands of other candidates for a place on the programme.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
The newcomer entered the arena to the sounds of Spandau Ballet's hit single "Gold", a fitting choice given her stage name.
Over the course of her time on the show, she featured in nine episodes. However, a persistent injury curtailed her appearances, preventing her from competing as frequently as she might have wished.
Despite these setbacks, the tribute from the show noted that she "quickly made her mark" during her tenure.
Following her departure from Gladiators, van der Walt returned to her homeland of South Africa.
There, she forged a new path as a visual artist, building a successful creative career far removed from the television spotlight.
She also pursued training as a psychosocial coach, adding another dimension to her professional life.
The tribute statement praised her determination throughout her time on the programme, stating: "She showed incredible resilience and when she did compete, she proved that all that glistens truly was Gold."
The announcement also highlighted her sporting achievements prior to television fame, noting: "Originally from South Africa, Lize was a talented athlete long before Gladiators, excelling in the 400m and relay."