Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa backs punchy as brand looks beyond sports-led hydration
Actor Ncuti Gatwa has invested in functional hydration brand punchy.
The Sex Education and Doctor Who star’s profile-raising presence will aid the challenger’s mission to push hydration outside the confines of sports performance.
“Proud moment for the punchy team,” the brand wrote in a statement.
“Today, we’re excited to welcome Ncuti Gatwa as our newest investor in punchy.
“From long days on set to life on the move, Ncuti found punchy the same way many people do, looking for hydration that actually fits into everyday life.
“He believes in what we’re building, and we’re proud to have his backing as we continue to grow.”
Founder Paddy Cavanagh-Butler said “so much” of Gatwa’s “bold, optimistic, playful and original” character aligns with the brand.
“punchy is for people who lead full-on work, social and active lives,” he added.
“It’s not a sports drink – it’s built for everyday life. So having Ncuti involved – who has one of the busiest schedules in the business – feels so right.
“Not only that, but he always brings a huge amount of warmth, personality and fun to everything he does.”
The marquee signing follows what was a “breakout year” for punchy in 2025. Its hydration range enjoyed 308% year-on-year growth, powered by nationwide retail listings in Waitrose, Sainsbury’s and Holland & Barrett, according to the brand.
All three flavours of punchy’s lightly sparkling cans – Mexican Lime, Mango, and Blueberry – were also recently made available in the Boots meal deal.
Looking to snowball that momentum in 2026, punchy said it felt like the “right moment” to welcome investors who “genuinely align with what we stand for.”
punchy’s drinks, which blend key electrolytes and minerals, vitamins C and D, and real fruit in a low-calorie package, can be purchased in multipacks via its online store.
The brand also offers vitamin D-enriched ‘Sipping Sodas’ and powdered hydration sachets.
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