Billy Billingham: The Man Behind the SAS Hero

A Familiar Face

Fans of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Win will be very familiar with instructor Billy Billingham. The war hero, who is actually called Mark, is known for his no-nonsense approach and for putting contestants through their paces. In the SAS, Billy achieved the rank of Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) which is the highest rank possible. Celebrity SAS first launched in 2019 and the star joined Celebrity SAS in 2016 as an instructor, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Birmingham Beginnings

Billy was born in Walsall, Birmingham, where he went to school before joining the army. He joined the Parachute Regiment in 1983 and served until 1991, holding positions such as a Patrol Commander and a training instructor. He then joined the SAS and became a warrant officer. After leaving the SAS, Mark worked as a bodyguard for celebrities like Tom Cruise, Kate Moss, and Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, earning more than £10,000 a month.

SAS Hero

After passing selection, Billy joined the SAS in 1991 as a Mountain Troop specialist and eventually became one of the highest ranks in the SAS. He has been responsible for planning and executing strategic operations and training at the highest level in locations including Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and Africa. Mark spent over 17 years with the SAS and nine in the Parachute Regiment.

Meeting Royalty and Marrying in Style

Mark has led countless hostage rescues and received awards including the Queen's Commendation for Bravery and an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II. In March 2019, he married Julie Colombino, an American fashion designer and founder of eco-conscious footwear label Deux Mains. Although Mark keeps much of his private life out of the public eye, he often shares snaps of him and his wife on his Instagram.