Jodie Ounsley, better known as Fury from the hit show Gladiators, recently revealed a heartbreaking personal loss.
The star explained that she nearly pulled out of the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special after her father passed away suddenly at the age of fifty-six.
She described her father as her "hero" and her biggest supporter throughout her career.
The news of his death came just as she began her intense training for the festive dance competition, leaving her devastated and questioning whether she could continue with the project.
After taking some time to reflect, Fury decided to move forward with the performance as a way to honor her father’s memory.
She shared that her father loved watching her succeed and would have wanted her to take part in such a joyful event.
While the training proved to be emotionally and physically challenging during her period of grief, she found comfort in the support of the Strictly team and her professional dance partner.
She hope her story encourages others facing loss during the holidays to find strength in their passions and the memories of their loved ones.
The Strictly Christmas Special features a variety of celebrities performing festive routines for the judges and the audience.
However for Fury, the experience became more than just a dance; it became a tribute to the man who helped shape her into a world-class athlete.
As the first deaf Gladiator, she has always broken barriers and inspired others.
Her resilience in the face of such a significant personal tragedy has only added to the respect her fans feel for her.
Furthermore, the upcoming broadcast will showcase the results of her hard work and dedication. Viewers can expect an emotional and high-energy routine that reflects her personality and her background in sports.
Fury continues to advocate for the deaf community and uses her platform to raise awareness about the challenges they face.
By sharing the story of her father, she highlights the importance of family and the lasting impact of a parent's love and encouragement.