Gladiator star coming to Torquay panto says 'If I don't try new things how can I inspire others'
Alex Gray says he encourages people to leave their comfort zone, and so it's something he should do too
Last updated 11th Sep 2026
Alex Gray - who's known as Apollo in TV show Gladiators - has been telling us he hopes to inspire, as he tries theatre acting for the first time this Christmas in Torquay.
The former rugby and NFL player will be 'Hector The Henchman' in Show White at the Princess Theatre and says he can't encourage youngsters to try something new if he won't.
"I have done absolutely zero theatre acting in the background," said the former England Rugby 7s player.
"Would you class The Gladiators as theatrical, I'm not sure? There's an element to it.
"Is it something I'm interested in, yes. Do I have ambitions to explore acting and entertainment outside of The Gladiators, yes of course. I see this as a first step on the rung."
The TV star says he's aware he's now a role model, something he embraces.
"It's the most amazing part of it for me, and I didn't really realise it was going to be when I first signed up," he said.
"Obviously the idea of putting on a sparkly spandex onesie and having a costume and walk-out music and beating up your local butcher or PT on a Saturday night was a really exciting prospect - but to see the impact we've had on families and children up and down the country and grown-ups as well, being able to give them that little bit of inspiration.
“Our show is based on ‘David versus Goliath’, being a good sport and when you get knocked down getting back up and trying your best no matter win or lose.
"To be able to instil that in a nation has been really cool. I do see it as a big part, if not the biggest, as you don't get a lot of opportunities to do that and we have to make the most of them."
Alex says he hopes to be approachable during his time in Torquay, adding: "I want to be out there in the community.
"I would say if you see me around in the coffee shops, or restaurants or me getting my shopping at the local supermarket don’t be afraid to come up and say hello or get a picture or whatever - that's a huge part I think is to be reachable."
Mr Gray says he expects to do some ad-libbing during performances - something he might do on the TV show. He also feels a responsibility to put on an entertaining theatre show as its often the first taste of live theatre for young children, and could lead to a lifelong connection and love of live performance.
The Gladiator has also in the past recorded a duet with co-star and country singer Emily Steel, known as Dynamite. for Movember in July 2025 called 'Cowboys Can Cry' which talks about mental health.
Snow White runs at the Princess Theatre from December 11 until January 2.