Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Former Beckham Bodyguard Craig Ainsworth Passes Away in Spain
Craig Ainsworth, a former bodyguard for David and Victoria Beckham and veteran Royal Marine, has tragically died in Spain. The news of the ex-military man’s passing was confirmed by his mother over the weekend, following an urgent appeal for information regarding his whereabouts after he went missing. Ainsworth, who had openly discussed his battles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), had reportedly shared a farewell message on social media, prompting concerns for his safety and an extensive police search in the Alicante and Barcelona regions.
Confirmation of Death and Background
In a poignant social media update, Sally Ainsworth, Craig’s mother, announced the devastating news of his death. “Craig has been found,” she wrote. “With the greatest sadness the world has lost Craig. He served in Afghanistan and he had PTSD.” She accompanied the announcement with a photograph of her son in military uniform, captioned simply: “RIP Craig.”
Prior to his death, Ainsworth, originally from Enfield, North London, had communicated with friends on Saturday, expressing “tremendous pain” stemming from the impact of lockdown measures. He wrote of how “lockdown destroyed everything I had built” and lamented the loss of close relationships.
Career and Personal Struggles
Ainsworth, believed to be 40 years old, provided security for the Beckhams between 2013 and 2015 during their time in London’s Holland Park. Beyond his celebrity clientele, Ainsworth’s personal life was marked by significant challenges. He revealed experiencing profound grief after losing “eleven friends … to suicide in just sixteen months” during lockdown periods. Despite these hardships, he found a new sense of “purpose” in coaching others on resilience and mental fortitude.
His final message on Facebook, described as a ‘Goodbye’ message, triggered his mother’s appeal and subsequent police involvement. Quoting Oscar Wilde, he wrote: “To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” He further elaborated on his internal struggles, stating, “For most of you this will come as a shock but I’ve been in the most tremendous pain for the past four years since lockdown destroyed everything I had built and I lost some genuinely amazing humans I was proud to call friends and colleagues.”
Ainsworth reflected on his life experiences, writing, “I lived the life of ten men. I lived with a pure heart and good intentions. Certainly not a perfect person but I lived life that’s for sure. I’ve been in agony but strived to project positivity into the world and help others.”
In a deeply personal note addressed to his dogs, Lilo and Stitch, he expressed remorse at leaving them, writing: “Lilo & Stitch – I’m sorry to abandon you, it breaks my heart but I will see you both on the other side where we can play forever x”
Author and Advocate for Mental Wellness
Ainsworth openly documented his life journey in his biography, ‘The Discombobulated Alpha’, released in October 2023. The book’s description highlights his transformation from a “bullied London lad to Royal Marine Commando, to protecting the most famous and hunting the infamous, to blazing a trail of personal transformation.”
The book further details his experiences as a “battle-hardened Royal Marine Commando, trusted bodyguard, and surveillance specialist” who protected “Royalty, Celebrities, and Billionaires.” It also underscores the profound impact of the pandemic, during which Ainsworth “faced a devastating loss—eleven friends lost to suicide in just sixteen months,” leading him to “redefine his purpose.”
Virtuous Savage and Coaching Career
Ainsworth established Virtuous Savage, a community focused on supporting individuals in overcoming mental health challenges and unlocking their full potential. As a coach, he aimed to help others “destroy limiting beliefs,” “build resilience under pressure,” “sharpen focus and clarity,” and “create bulletproof momentum.”
Bodyguard Career and Celebrity Clients
Before dedicating himself to coaching, Ainsworth’s security career involved rigorous training, including enduring pepper spray and confronting an MMA fighter. He joined the Beckhams’ security detail in 2013, coinciding with David Beckham’s return to London after playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
Recalling his time with the famous couple, Ainsworth described David Beckham as “charming” and noted Victoria Beckham’s private nature, focused on her children and work. He admired their ability to maintain a strong family unit amidst intense public scrutiny.
Protection of A-List Celebrities
Beyond the Beckhams, Ainsworth’s security work extended to other prominent figures in Hollywood, including Johnny Depp, Jennifer Lawrence, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Unclear Circumstances Surrounding Death
As of this morning, the precise location and circumstances surrounding Craig Ainsworth’s death remain unclear.
Tributes and Support Information
Online Tributes Pour In
Tributes have been offered online, with Middlesex University professor Linda Duffy expressing condolences to Ainsworth’s mother, Sally, and acknowledging Craig’s service as a “brave Royal Marine.” Susannah Washington added her condolences, sending “hugs” and support during this “devastating time.”
Mental Health Support
For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, or visit samaritans.org or https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support