Actress and former Strictly winner Rose Ayling-Ellis is set to make history as the first deaf person to host live sports coverage on TV. The EastEnders star will be one of Channel 4’s hosts for the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris, which kick off next week.
Ayling-Ellis will co-host a daily show, Afternoon Live, alongside Clare Balding from the Athletes’ Village, with live British Sign Language (BSL) signing. The actress expressed her excitement about the opportunity, stating that the Paralympics provide a platform to showcase the abilities of disabled individuals.
Joining Balding for the opening and closing ceremonies will be broadcaster and former wheelchair basketball player Ade Adepitan and Paralympic swimming champion Ellie Simmonds. Channel 4’s presenting line-up will also include former rugby union player Ed Jackson, racing driver-turned-pundit Billy Monger, BBC Radio 1 presenter Vick Hope, and comedian Josh Pugh.
Ayling-Ellis, who made her mark as the first deaf contestant on Strictly Come Dancing, shared that she underwent extensive training to prepare for her hosting role. Despite initial doubts, she has embraced the challenge and is looking forward to the experience.
The 29-year-old actress emphasized the importance of normalizing disability and breaking down stereotypes. She aims to inspire others by pushing boundaries and being a trailblazer in her field.
Channel 4’s coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will commence with the opening ceremony on August 28 and conclude with the closing ceremony on September 8. The network is committed to showcasing the talents and achievements of Paralympic athletes while challenging traditional norms in live sports broadcasting.
