Gladiators star Falcon has died aged 59 after losing her battle with cancer.
The star – whose real name is Bernadette Hunt – joined the hit ITV show for its second series in 1993 and remained a core part of the hit programme until series ended.
The partner of Bernadette’s sister announced the sad news in a public Facebook Group with a heartfelt tribute as they described Bernadette as “one of the loveliest people” they’d ever met.
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Accompanied by a photo taken of Bernadette while on Gladiators, they wrote: “It is with great sadness that I have to tell you of my partner’s younger sister Bernadette Hunt.
“Most people will remember her as Falcon From the hit TV Show Gladiators.”
(Image: LWT)
They continued: “I had the privilege to be in her company a few times and I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met.
“She never had a bad word to say about anyone, indeed she was always known as the nicest Gladiator always stopping to speak and sign autographs for anyone”.
“She had been battling cancer for a number of years until sadly she lost he fight. RIP Bernie.”
They confirmed in a comment response to a tribute that the funeral would be private and family only.
(Image: REX/Shutterstock)
The tributes began flooding in for the show legend, with her sister Carol writing: “My beautiful sister was the best kind of human being on this earth.”
Her co-star Suzanne Cox, who was better known as Vogue, shared her condolences too online, saying with a crying emoji: “I found out a few days ago.”
Another added: “I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it hadn’t been for Bernie. It was she who convinced me to do my training to become an aerobic instructor in her days before Gladiators and had the pleasure of working with her at Basingstoke Sports Centre. She was the loveliest of ladies, a beautiful soul with the biggest heart and smile. My thoughts are with her family.”
“Oh lovely Bernie… I’m so sorry to hear this… I had the great pleasure of knowing and working with her in our local village pub in the early 90s. Never a happier smilier soul I have met. Sending huge condolences and much love. Rest well Bernie,” penned a third.
Someone else shared: “Oh I’m so sad to hear this. Bernie was just the loveliest person. So warm and friendly. Please send my love and condolences to the family. Xx.”
Falcon was thought of as the kindest of the Gladiators among fans, always there to congratulate contenders whether they won or lost.
(Image: LWT)
She was a solid all-rounder on the show, able to take on any of the events that were thrown at her – but it took a strong contender to go up against her.
Falcon took on events such as Joust, Powerball and Tilt throughout her time on the show.
As well as appearing on the main show, Bernadette appeared as Falcon on two series of International Gladiators, was a reserve in The Ashes 2, and took part in three live shows.
After Gladiators ended, Bernadette opted for a life out of the spotlight and worked as a fitness instructor at Basingstoke Sports Centre.
Bernadette leaves behind two children; Adam and Angel.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
