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 Paralympic Games in Paris, starting 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 to showcase the abilities of disabled individuals, stating that the Paralympics provide a platform to demonstrate what people with disabilities can achieve.
In a statement, Ayling-Ellis emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. She highlighted the significance of her role as the first deaf person to host a live sports TV show, proving that hosting is not limited to those who can hear.
The 29-year-old shared her journey of training and preparation for the hosting role, acknowledging the challenges but expressing her love for the experience. Ayling-Ellis, known for her roles in EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing, has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, previously becoming the first person to deliver a CBeebies bedtime story in sign language.
Balding, a seasoned sports presenter, praised the Paralympics as the pinnacle of summer sports and emphasized the importance of embracing new challenges. Channel 4’s coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will kick off with the opening ceremony on August 28 and conclude with the closing ceremony on September 8.
Ayling-Ellis’s groundbreaking achievement as a deaf host in live sports coverage marks a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity and diversity in the media industry. Her dedication to challenging norms and inspiring others serves as a testament to the power of representation and breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities.
