He may be more used to being tested on his speed, but Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, better recognised as Gladiators star Nitro, will have to swap his lightning-fast reflexes for the Quickstep after being announced as the first star for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing. It comes eight months after the Olympian and gold medal-winning Team GB sprinter took part in last year’s Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special, where he came joint second with partner Nancy Xu.
‘After the Christmas Special, it was so nice I just had to do it twice!’ he says. ‘I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I’m ready to give it all I’ve got. I’ll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor. Let’s hope I’m as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track.’
Harry made his surprise announcement on Newsround with a prank, disguised as world-renowned choreographer Nicky Trott. But presenter Jenny Lawrence soon rumbled onto his real identity – and Harry dropped the news.
Who is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey?
Harry is a world and Commonwealth sprinting champion and Gladiators star.
How old is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey?
Harry was born on 29 August 1988, making him 36.
How tall is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey?
Harry is 5’11.
Who is Gladiator Nitro married to?
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey is married to wife Lauren, with whom he has daughter Aubree-Isla.
Was Nitro an Olympic sprinter?
Harry is an Olympic sprinter and represented Great Britain at the Rio Olympics in 2016. He first won a silver medal in the 100m at the 2004 Commonwealth Youth Games and became the first athlete to win gold medals at both 100m and 200m at the World Youth Championships. Following the accolade, he was named the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year in 2005.
He was chosen for Team GB at the 2009 World Championships in Athletics where he joined the 4 x 100m relay team. He became British champion after he won the 100m at the 2020 British Athletics Championships. 2022 saw him winning gold at the 100m relays at the European Championships in Munich and Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
What other shows has Harry been on?
Harry appeared on Celebs On The Farm in 2021, finishing as runner-up. He joined Gladiators for the TV show reboot in 2023, also starring in spin-off Epic Pranks, and also took part on Celebrity MasterChef in September 2024. He participated in the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly, alongside professional dancer Nancy Xu, where he finished joint second with Tamzin Outhwaite. Harry was awarded a top score of 37 for his street-commercial dance to The Waitresses’ festive hit Christmas Wrapping.