Fans are only just realising that Ross Kemp played for a Gallagher Prem club

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.”

From marquee signings and contract renewals to potential blockbuster moves, the shake-up in both the Premiership and Top 14 is already creating plenty of headlines.

With coaching announcements, high-profile players on the move, and star names confirming new deals, fans are in for a season full of intrigue both on and off the field.

England and Lions prop Mako Vunipola has revealed he hopes to be part of Tonga’s coaching set-up at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia — with younger brother Billy potentially joining the squad as a player. FULL STORY

England have today confirmed that Byron McGuigan will join Steve Borthwick’s coaching team for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series. FULL STORY

Saracens have confirmed that Red Roses star Jess Breach has signed a new contract with the club, extending her stay in North London after a remarkable year on both the domestic and international stage. FULL STORY

Bristol’s Argentina international Benjamin Elizalde is of interest to French side Clermont Auvergne while his CV is also circulating among other PREM clubs, according to Mail Online.

Saracens are reportedly closing in on a stunning move for Wales captain Jac Morgan, with the Prem giants now favourites to secure his signature when his Welsh Rugby Union contract expires at the end of the season. FULL STORY

After plenty of speculation of external offers, former England centre Manu Tuilagi has agreed a new deal with Aviron Bayonnais. Bayonne keep the powerhouse midfielder in the Top 14 until 2027, with the 34-year old confirmed to remain in the Basque Country with a fresh contract agreed. FULL STORY

English Premiership heavyweights Saracens are lining up a sensational swoop for Wales and British & Irish Lions scrum-half Tomos Williams. FULL STORY

Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed that centre Tom Farrell has signed a new two-year contract extension, keeping him at the province until at least 2028. FULL STORY

]England full-back and World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne says she’s “open to anything” when it comes to the proposed R360 league. FULL STORY