Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, known to viewers as Nitro on the BBC show "Gladiators," has revealed that fatherhood significantly altered his perspective, leading him to trade a demanding sprinting career for television work. Aikines-Aryeetey, who previously represented the UK in the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics, transitioned to television in 2023 to spend more time with his wife, Lauren, and their five-year-old daughter, Aubreé-Isla.
"My daughter is my whole entire world," Aikines-Aryeetey stated in an interview with the Daily Mail. "I selfishly did a lot of things for myself as a sprinter, as an Olympic athlete. You compromise and sacrifice on a lot of things around life. But the moment you have a child..."
He expressed initial sadness that his daughter would not witness his athletic achievements but soon realized the greater gift was her seeing him in his current roles. "Actually I've been given an even greater gift with her seeing me do Gladiators and Strictly and MasterChef because all of these things have taught her different things about life," he said.
Aubreé-Isla's engagement with his television work extends to shared activities, such as cooking alongside him after his appearance on "MasterChef." Aikines-Aryeetey also noted that her interest in performing has led him to enroll her in a performing arts school. "She's watched me on telly since she was born. So for her it's actually just normal," he explained, adding that she often introduces herself as "Nitro" to new friends.
Aikines-Aryeetey's journey to entertainment began long before his athletic peak. He recalled that even in school, peers suggested he was destined for a career that involved entertaining people and bringing positivity. "From 14, I had aspirations of being at the Olympics representing the country. I was the fastest 14-year-old of all time in Europe," he said. "So, at the time, I was heavily set on running fast. But within that, I I didn't realize I was building this character called Nitro as well. I go by the name Nitro because I'm a form of energy!"
His television career includes a stint on "Strictly Come Dancing" last year, and he expressed eagerness for a potential "All Stars" series. While he could not comment on the upcoming "Gladiators" season, he shared his excitement about celebrity specials and named boxer Anthony Joshua as a dream opponent.
In addition to his media work, Aikines-Aryeetey has taken on a role as the UK's first ‘Personal Drainer’ in a campaign with HomeServe. This initiative aims to educate the public on drain maintenance to prevent costly issues. "You've heard of a personal trainer, but now you have a personal drainer here to help you monitor and look after your drains!" he explained, emphasizing the importance of prevention and avoiding common mistakes that lead to blockages and potential embarrassment from odors.