Gladiators star Steel has shared an emotional update with fans after welcoming his newborn son, Otis, revealing that the little boy’s middle name is a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Leo.
The BBC star, whose real name is Zack George, announced the arrival of his son alongside a series of tender family photographs showing him and wife Samantha cradling their baby shortly after his birth.
The couple, who are also parents to daughter Ivy, described Otis as their “baby boy” and spoke of the joy he has already brought to their family.
In a follow-up post, Mr George revealed that Otis’ middle name is Leo, explaining that the choice was made to honour his second child, who tragically died last year after being born prematurely.
Sharing more adorable images of the newborn, the fitness star said he felt “honoured” to carry Leo’s memory forward in such a meaningful way, adding that his late son would always remain part of their family.
The arrival of Otis comes just over a year after Mr George and his partner endured the devastating loss of baby Leo, who was born at 23 weeks’ gestation.
Leo spent 13 days in neonatal intensive care before he died following multiple medical complications.
Throughout his short life, Mr George openly documented his son’s fight, receiving an outpouring of support from fans and fellow Gladiators stars.
Mr George and his partner welcomed their baby boy and announced his arrival on Instagram
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Following the birth announcement, friends, fans and several of Mr George’s Gladiators co-stars flooded the comments section with congratulatory messages, celebrating the family’s happy news after an incredibly difficult chapter.
Many described Otis as a “rainbow baby” – a term often used for a child born after the loss of a sibling – while sending their love to Mr George, his partner and big sister Ivy.
Mr George has previously spoken candidly about how becoming a father transformed his outlook on life and, after Leo’s death, reflected on how the experience had changed his understanding of strength.
While continuing to honour his son’s memory, he has shared regular updates about his family’s healing journey with supporters on social media.
The star lost his second child Leo after he was born at 23 weeks
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The latest photographs of baby Otis were met with thousands of likes within hours, with many followers praising the couple’s resilience and sending their best wishes as they begin this new chapter together while keeping Leo’s memory close to their hearts.
Friend Montell Douglas penned: “Otis, baby boy you are soooo loved. Welcome to the world.”
Eddie Hall added: “Congrats brother.”
Mr George’s co-star Giant, real name Jamie Bigg, simply wrote: “Mate,” alongside multiple red heart emojis. (sic)