Gladiators star Comet, whose real name is Ella-Mae Rayner, has married fitness expert James Exton. The couple exchanged vows on Thursday in a ceremony in St. Albans, with Rayner sharing photos from the event on Instagram on Sunday.
Rayner, known for her role as Comet in the revived BBC series Gladiators, wore a white fitted blazer over a silk skirt with a mini train for the occasion. She paired the ensemble with an oversized white hat and veil. Exton, the founder of fitness company LDN Muscle, coordinated with his bride in a white suit. The ceremony photos, taken by @yourdayunscripted, included the couple posing in front of St. Albans Cathedral.
The couple announced their engagement in May 2025 after Exton proposed during a trip to Corfu. Rayner shared images of the proposal, which took place on a boat.
Rayner joined the Gladiators lineup for its 2024 revival. She is a former elite gymnast and has spoken about embracing both her athletic strength and her feminine side, telling the BBC, "Previously, women have been told that being muscular just makes you look like a man, but that's absolutely not the case." She added that she loves "shopping, beauty, fashion and getting all dressed up" while also valuing being "powerful" and "strong."
In 2024, Rayner experienced a significant injury on the show, falling from 'The Wall' and nearly being unable to walk. She later discussed her recovery, emphasizing the reality of the show's physical demands and the support she received from the medical team.
Filming for the fourth series of Gladiators has begun, with new additions to the cast announced, including Olympic skeleton racer Tabby Stoecker, fitness influencer Florence Wong (Huntress), and World's Strongest Man champion Tom Stoltman. Rugby star Joe Marler is also set to appear as a Celebrity Gladiator.