Olympic legend Daley Thompson is making headlines again as he gears up to enter the Celebrity Big Brother house on Monday night. The former Olympian is expected to be one of 12 housemates in the new series, joining celebrities like Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke, EastEnders actress Patsy Palmer, and Conservative MP Michael Fabricant. Thompson’s move into reality TV marks a new chapter in his life, over 30 years since retiring from athletics. Renowned as one of the greatest British athletes, Thompson secured two Olympic gold medals in the decathlon in 1980 and 1984, alongside numerous world, European, and Commonwealth titles.
Thompson had a challenging upbringing, facing poverty and prejudice, with his father tragically murdered when he was just ten years old. Despite these hardships, Thompson’s resilience and determination led him to become an athletic sensation. Beyond his athletic career, Thompson has ventured into various pursuits, including working as a fitness trainer, motivational speaker, and opening a gym in London. He has also found love again after parting ways with his long-term partner and has remained active in sports, passing on his talents to his children.
The former decathlon champion’s personal life has seen its fair share of turmoil, with a turbulent love life that has been well-documented in the media. Despite his past reputation for womanizing, Thompson settled down and married his childhood sweetheart, with whom he had three children. Following their separation, he entered into a relationship with Lisa Clayton, with whom he shares two sons. Thompson’s sons, Elliot and Alex, have followed in their father’s footsteps, pursuing careers in athletics and rugby union, respectively.
Elliot has excelled in the decathlon, while Alex has made a name for himself in the rugby world, playing for prestigious teams such as Bath and representing Scotland at the U20s Six Nations. Thompson, now 66, has no plans to re-enter professional sports but takes pride in his sons’ accomplishments. Reflecting on his life’s journey, Thompson acknowledges the importance of family, friends, and health above all else. As he embarks on a new adventure in the Celebrity Big Brother house, fans await to see a different side of the sporting icon outside the track.