Sport has played a major role in Ross Kemp’s life, long before he became a household name as EastEnders hardman Grant Mitchell.
Growing up in Dagenham, Kemp played rugby regularly and also trained at Romford Amateur Boxing Club.
His experiences in both sports helped develop the toughness and resilience that would later become a key part of his public persona.
“I’ve always loved a contact sport,” Kemp has said. “If you could take a hit, you could play.”
His passion for rugby continued after he began his acting career, with Kemp representing several clubs at senior level, including Brentwood RFC, Saracens 2nd XV and Maidstone RFC.
Kemp was known for his physical approach on the pitch and his willingness to put his body on the line. Even as his acting career began to take off, he continued to make time for rugby.
It has been reported that Kemp once arrived at a Maidstone match straight from filming, still wearing stage make-up, before getting stuck into the action.
His connection with rugby has remained strong over the years. Kemp is a loyal Saracens supporter and has regularly been seen watching the club, including at some of their biggest matches.
He was among the Saracens supporters at St James’ Park in 2019 when the club defeated Leinster 20-10 to win the Champions Cup, a victory Kemp described as one of his proudest moments as a fan.
At 62, Kemp is now best known for his work as a documentary presenter, covering subjects ranging from war zones to ganglands. However, he has often spoken about the impact rugby had on his character and outlook on life.
“Rugby gave me grit,” he’s said. “It’s a family – and once you’re in, you never leave.”
Now, Kemp is taking on another challenge as he joins Celebrity Traitors, which begins tonight.
Following the success of former England and Harlequins star Joe Marler, who reached the final, Kemp will be hoping to go one step further and win the series, whether he takes on the role of a traitor or a faithful.
The former EastEnders actor said he was excited to be involved in what he considers "one of the best TV shows around."
He said: "It transcends age groups and class, which I think is really important.
"My kids are absolutely obsessed with it, and they span ages fifteen to eight.
"I'm a great fan of Claudia [Winkleman], I think she's very good at what she does, and I think the format is brilliant."
Kemp also explained that he does not view Celebrity Traitors as a reality programme, instead seeing it as a game, which was one of the reasons he wanted to take part.
