Fans Just Realising Ross Kemp Played For Professional Rugby Club

Tuesday, 24 June 2025 at 22:30

byRugby Rucker

They’ve gone from teenage sweethearts to one of England rugby’s power couples.

Sport has always been a huge part of Ross Kemp’s life – long before he became a household name on
EastEnders, he was putting in big hits on the rugby pitch and taking punches in the boxing ring.

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Best known for playing hardman Grant Mitchell, Kemp has never been far from real-life physicality. Growing up in Dagenham, he was a regular at both the local rugby club and Romford Amateur Boxing Club, learning resilience and toughness from an early age.

“I’ve always loved a contact sport,” Kemp has said. “If you could take a hit, you could play.”

That love of sport stayed with him into adulthood. While training as an actor, Kemp continued to lace up his boots and represent local rugby sides. He played senior rugby for Brentwood RFC, Saracens 2nd XV, and Maidstone RFC, where his competitive edge and no-nonsense style earned him respect among teammates and opposition alike.

Even when his acting career took off, Kemp made time for rugby. It's said he once turned up for a Maidstone game straight from filming, still with stage make-up on – and didn’t hold back when the whistle blew.

His passion for the sport hasn’t faded. Kemp remains a loyal supporter of Saracens, regularly attending matches and throwing his weight behind the club.

He was among the fans at St James’ Park in 2019, when Sarries claimed the Champions Cup title with a thrilling 20-10 win over Leinster. The victory, he said, “was one of the proudest days I’ve had as a fan.”

Now a successful documentary presenter, Kemp often draws comparisons between the camaraderie of rugby and the loyalty required in his real-life adventures across war zones and ganglands.

“Rugby gave me grit,” he’s said. “It’s a family – and once you’re in, you never leave.”

English British & Irish Lions WAG's

Here’s a look at the women who’ll be backing the boys — and turning heads — every step of the way..

Beth Dolling – Singer, Model, and Marcus’s No.1 Fan (Marcus Smith)

Fly-half Marcus Smith is dating Beth Dolling, a 25-year-old singer and model who’s worked with major brands like PrettyLittleThing and built up a sizeable social following.

She’s often snapped in glammed-up couples’ pics with Marcus, and one heartfelt post said it all: “No matter what, watching you do what you love doing makes me so proud.”

They’ve been Instagram official since June 2021, and with Beth’s fashion flair, expect some serious style moments down under.

Mimi Fall – The new Mrs Itoje (Maro Itoje)

The Lions captain has officially hung up his bachelor boots after tying the knot with long-time partner Mimi Fall – just weeks before the tour kicks off.

The towering second-row proposed during a sun-soaked getaway to Nigeria and Ghana in August 2024, popping the question at a dreamy waterside resort in Ada, just outside Accra. “It was a beautiful resort,” Maro told the Daily Mail. “I popped the question there.” Job done.

Mimi confirmed the engagement with a sparkling Instagram reveal, flashing the rock and writing: "Mrs I to be." Cue the collective swoon.

Fast forward to May 25, and the couple sealed the deal with a stylish ceremony in London’s swanky Mayfair. The snaps say it all – pure class, serious suits, and big smiles all round.

Sharing the news online, Maro wrote:
"Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!"

Ashleigh Inwood – Five Years Strong with Freeman (Tommy Freeman)

Northampton flier Tommy Freeman has been dating Ashleigh Inwood for over five years. They now share a home near Northampton and a future that looks just as promising as Tommy’s England career.

Freeman recently posted a loved-up tribute: “Five years. Forever grateful for your support.”
But don’t worry — there’s still room in his heart for Fin Smith. Tommy joked to MailOnline: “Our girlfriends aren’t happy because they think we like each other more than them!”

Meg - Keeps herself out of the spotlight (Ellis Genge)

Fellow England vice-captain Ellis Genge is in a relationship with his partner Meg. The blonde beauty often stays out of the spotlight, so not much is known about her, however, the pair share two sons, who Ellis absolutely dotes on.

Nancy Neath – Design Star with an Eye for Decor (Will Stuart)

Prop Will Stuart’s girlfriend Nancy Neath is a creative talent in her own right, running a successful table and floral design business that’s got serious aesthetic game.

The couple moved in together in 2023, though not without hiccups. Will revealed: “My girlfriend chose a new mattress — it’s too soft. I’ve ended up on the floor a few times tucked in a duvet.” Rugby tackles are rough, but love is tougher.

Gracie Hand - The long-term couple (Fin Smith)

Student Gracie tends to keep her private life low-key, but Fin posts adorable selfies of them together, sharing glimpses of their relationship with his followers.

Michelle Daly – From School Romance to Family Life (Elliot Daly)

Elliot Daly married longtime love Michelle in 2021 after years together and one perfectly timed proposal. The pair have now welcomed a daughter, Orla, born in July 2024.

Elliot summed it up sweetly on their anniversary: “One month ago today, I got to marry my soulmate. 10 years of knowing each other, 4 years engaged, and now finally married. My Wife.”