Inside Celebrity SAS 2024: Contestants, Injuries and Controversies

Updated on: October 13, 2024 10:59 am GMT

As the countdown begins for the highly anticipated return of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, viewers are eager to meet the brave celebrities who will face intense military challenges in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand’s mountains. The explosive new season promises to test the limits of 15 celebrity contestants, all willing to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. Will they prevail against the grueling tasks designed by the show’s chief instructor, Billy Billingham? The show premieres on September 22 at 9 PM on Channel 4.

Courage Under Fire: The Contestants Unveiled

This season, the line-up features a diverse group of celebrities, each bringing their unique backgrounds and life experiences to the rigorous training program. Here’s a quick glance at the participants ready to take on the challenge:

• Anthony Ogogo (35) – A professional wrestler and former Olympian boxer, Ogogo aimed to transform his life through this experience. Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins is one of the best shows on telly,” he said.
• Bianca Gascoigne (37) – As the adopted daughter of footballer Paul Gascoigne, Bianca’s reality TV experience spans across numerous shows. She stated, “This was a chance for me to really show people what I’m made of.”
• Bobby Norris (38) – Best known from The Only Way Is Essex, Norris expressed his desire to confront personal fears. “I decided that if I could try and even tackle one of them, I’d be happy,” he shared.
• Cherry Healey (43) – Heavily involved in lifestyle documentaries, Healey described the experience as “the most amazing, awful experience of my life.
• Chris Robshaw (38) – The retired English rugby player wanted to explore his physical limits, stating, “It was just absolutely amazing.”
• Ellie Downie (25) – This former gymnast was shocked at the program’s difficulty. “The challenges are really hard and the DS are really strict,” she admitted.
• Georgia Harrison (29) – Known from The Only Way Is Essex and Love Island, Harrison called it a “brilliant” experience that exceeded her expectations.
• John Barrowman (57) – The actor and former judge emphasized the importance of being up for a challenge. “I just really wanted to give it a whirl,” he explained.
• Lani Daniels (36) – As a professional boxer, Daniels found the experience fulfilling. “I think [the show] exceeded my expectations,” she said.
• Marnie Simpson (32) – The Geordie Shore star voiced surprise at the program’s intensity, stating, “It was very raw and very real!”
• Ovie Soko (33) – The basketball player and reality star shared a transformative sentiment: “It blew me away.”
• Pete Wicks (36) – After being medically withdrawn from a previous season, Wicks felt a sense of redemption in returning. “I felt like I hadn’t given it my best,” he noted.
• Rachel Johnson (59) – The political journalist mentioned how the experience was “much more” than expected, describing it as “top notch.”
• Shazia Mirza (51) – The comedian pointed out the personal growth she experienced throughout the program.
• Tez Ilyas (41) – Known for his stand-up comedy, Ilyas reflected on the challenging yet fun experience, stating it was “harder and more fun than I could have possibly imagined.”

A Harsh Reality: Billy Billingham’s Disappointment

Among the drama that unfolds in the upcoming season, chief instructor Billy Billingham had strong words for one participant who chose to withdraw just hours into the competition. “I was disgusted, absolutely disgusted,” he revealed, describing the decision as a wasted opportunity. During an interview, he expressed his frustration at someone who could not even complete the initial challenges, which included strenuous physical and emotional tests, all designed to push contestants to their breaking points.

In his role as chief directing staff, Billingham uses his military background to challenge the stars in ways they have never experienced before. The 2024 season features a tightrope walk 300 feet above ground and an assault course designed to simulate a hostage rescue, promising thrilling moments as they navigate through both physical and psychological trials.

Celebrity Reflections: Life-Changing Experiences

As anticipation builds for the premiere, many of the contestants have shared reflections on their experiences while filming Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. Several contestants have echoed sentiments about the transformative effects of the challenges they faced, with many emphasizing the harsh conditions and the often overwhelming intensity of the show.

• Ovie Soko expressed his shock at the show’s demands, stating, “You don’t really know until you get there.”
• Anthony Ogogo described the program as “life-changing,” while Cherry Healey called it “impossible to prepare for” in regard to its physical and mental challenges.
• Shazia Mirza emphasized a newfound belief in herself, declaring, “If I was able to get through that, I could do anything.”

Each contestant appears determined to showcase their strength and resilience, whether it’s battling personal fears or battling through physically taxing tasks. The overall sentiment among contestants highlights a desire for personal growth, and a spirit of camaraderie despite the brutal training.

What to Expect in the New Season

Viewers tuning in for the opening episode are in for a viewing experience that promises a blend of inspiration and entertainment. The dramatic environment, rigorous training, and the personalities involved are set to create must-see television.

• The casting of John Barrowman, despite controversies from his past, adds layers to the narrative unfolding this season. His presence has already stirred up discussion among audiences regarding redemption arcs in reality TV.
• The dynamics between seasoned celebrities and newer faces will also offer a compelling contrast, showing how different backgrounds contribute to their handling of the challenges.

Set against the naturally stunning terrains of New Zealand, this season is likely to feature breathtaking visuals alongside emotional moments as the contestants push themselves to the limit. With the new season looming just days away, the excitement among fans is palpable.

As the premiere of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins approaches, all eyes will be on the screen ready to see which celebrity will rise to the occasion, and who may succumb to the pressures of the regiment. Tune in on September 22 to find out!

Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins is a fun and exciting show on Channel 4. In this show, famous people take on tough challenges to see if they can handle the pressure. They go through intense training and face difficult situations, just like real soldiers. It’s interesting to watch how they grow and change during the experience!