Jennifer Stoute, now 59, is best known to many as the fierce “Rebel” from the 1990s TV show Gladiators, but her story is one of remarkable achievements both on and off the screen. Originally a decorated sprinter, she represented Britain in athletics for over a decade, winning gold at the 1990 Commonwealth Games and capturing a bronze in the 4x400m relay at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. After a debilitating hamstring injury in 1993, Jennifer made a pivot that would change her life. Three years later, she joined Gladiators, adopting the name “Rebel” and becoming a fan favorite for her prowess in events like Powerball, Pendulum, and The Wall.
Jennifer’s time on Gladiators made her a household name in the UK. Known for her strength and competitive spirit, she only lost once in The Wall, solidifying her reputation as one of the show’s most formidable contenders. She remained on Gladiators until 1999, even making an appearance in Ridley Scott’s blockbuster film Gladiator. Her stint in show business, however, was only the beginning of an impressive career outside of sports and TV.
Today, Jennifer is a thriving entrepreneur and runs Astra Partners, a successful sports management company valued at around £3.8 million. Through her agency, she supports athletes in maximizing their potential, negotiating sponsorships, and building lasting careers. Her business success is complemented by her work as a brand ambassador; she has featured in beauty campaigns for Garnier and Look Fantastic and represents Pro-Ven Probiotics as an ambassador.
Jennifer co-owns Astra Partners with her ex-husband, John Regis MBE, also a former world champion athlete. Together, they have raised two children who have carried on their athletic legacy. Their 19-year-old daughter, Renee Regis, is a British track and field athlete, while their 22-year-old daughter, Alicia Jazmin Regis, has chosen a path in health and fitness.
In her personal life, Jennifer has found happiness with her partner Ian Laughton, who runs a construction company. She briefly returned to TV for Sky One’s Gladiators revival from 2008 to 2009, a nostalgic return that reminded fans of her iconic Gladiators days. Reflecting on her original experience on the show, Jennifer described it as “one of the best decisions” she ever made, noting how it transformed her career and her life. However, she was blindsided when the show was abruptly canceled. During a flight back from Mauritius, Ulrika Jonsson, who hosted Gladiators, broke the news to her, saying, “Jennifer, do you know that we haven’t got a job?” Jennifer was stunned by the news, as there had been no indication the show was ending.
Jennifer remains close to her Gladiators family and is even the godmother to Ulrika Jonsson’s 16-year-old son, Malcolm. Recently, the Gladiators cast faced sadness with the passing of Bernadette Hunt, known as “Falcon.” Falcon, who passed away in March 2023 after battling cancer, left a legacy through her will, gifting close to £300,000 to her family. Bernadette had been an essential part of Gladiators since joining in 1993, and her contributions left a lasting mark on fans and friends alike.
Jennifer Stoute’s journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. From her time as an elite athlete to her ventures in business and advocacy, she continues to inspire as a role model and as a formidable “Rebel” who’s still making waves long after her Gladiators days.
