Sam Burgess tells SAS Australia: I lost my career, my kids, my marriage

Ex-NRL star Sam Burgess has revealed how he lost respect for himself after his seemingly perfect life spiralled out of control in full view of the public.

Controversial rugby league star Sam Burgess has revealed how he lost respect for himself as his seemingly perfect life spiralled out of control.

The former Rabbitohs star player features in a new promo ahead of his appearance on hit reality show SAS Australia, which was filmed earlier this year near the Blue Mountains.

Sam Burgess will join Mark Philippoussis, Jana Pittman, Alicia Molik, Erin Holland and Bonnie Anderson on SAS Australia. Picture: Channel 7

SAS Australia has been gruelling — physically and mentally — for the ex-NRL superstar.

“I lost my career, my kids and my marriage,” Burgess said in the ad.

“I’ve lost it all. I obviously lost respect for myself.”

Burgess, 32, and socialite ex-wife Phoebe had two children — Poppy and Billy — together when they were married.

Their fairytale world crumbled amid suggestions of infidelity and drug use.

Burgess breaks down talking about his life. Picture: Channel 7

British ex-pat Burgess will appear alongside a bunch of celebrity faces on SAS Australia when it premieres on Channel 7 next month.

Others set to appear in the gruelling SAS-style course include Mark Philippoussis, Jana Pittman, Alicia Molik, Erin Holland and Bonnie Anderson.

“I am scared of the dark,” Burgess revealed in the promotion. “I will not quit the course.”

British ex-Special Forces member Ant Middleon said: “Not a lot of people are honest with themselves. It takes something to find out who they really are.”

Separately, Burgess has spoken of his great love for his children ahead of Father’s Day next month.

Burgess with his kids Poppy and Billy at Coogee Beach last year.

“Being a father is my most important role in life,” he said in an interview on his clothing brand website, 4B Label.

“Always learning and growing, it can be challenging but certainly the most rewarding role I’ve played.

“As much as our children need us to grow and develop, they’re doing the same for us.

“They remind me to be grateful and happy no matter the circumstances.

“Without being too deep, they hold the core values of life front and centre for everyone to see. My job is to nurture that.”