For over a decade, Manu Tuilagi has been England rugby’s human wrecking ball—towering at 6ft and weighing 17st, his tribal tattoos and rippling muscles make him an unmistakable force on the field.
Recognised as one of the game’s most electrifying talents, Manu is now set to make waves in the Top 14 after leaving Sale Sharks.
But back in Samoa, the spotlight shifts
In the small beach village of Fatausi-Fogapoa, nestled on the Samoan island of Savai’i where Manu grew up, the 33-year-old isn’t even the most eye-catching Tuilagi sibling. That title belongs to his 6ft brother, Olotuli—known to everyone as Julie.
Julie, who identifies as part of Samoa’s fa’afafine tradition, lives life with unapologetic flair. As Manu explains:
“It’s just the way he is. He was born like that and he wants to dress up as a woman. But not just dress up, he lives the life of a woman – he has the eyelashes, eyebrows, has make-up done and wears a bra. It doesn’t matter. He’s our brother and a great guy. He is just different.”
Collect picture of Julie Tuilagi with her borther Manu.
Julie (Olotuli Tuilagi) is the brother of England rugby play Manu Tuilagi
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The life of a Samoan princess
Growing up, Julie embraced the traditional fa’afafine role, dedicating herself to household responsibilities.
“I cook for them, I tidy, I iron their clothes. That’s the life of a fa’afafine in Samoa. They help and do everything in the family,” she shares.
Attracted to men, Julie has considered surgery to become more feminine but hasn’t made any decisions yet.
“Some of my fa’afafine friends have had their full operation and got married. I haven’t had any surgery but maybe in the future, if I want to. For now, I would rather stay alone and keep myself as a princess rather than become a slave of some kind.”
A supermodel in her own right
Despite her domestic commitments, Julie embraces her flamboyant side.
“Of course I dress up. When we go out, I dress up like a princess, I dress up like a model. Everywhere I go – nightclubs, town – I dress up like a supermodel. It’s my personal choice.”
Her family, especially Manu, has always supported her individuality.
“Manu and I are very close. We respect each other because we are from a very respected family. Without them, I would never dress up like this.”
And Julie isn’t shy about her role within the Tuilagi clan:
“I’m the only princess in the Tuilagi family, but if Manu wants to wear one of my dresses, that’s all right, no problem.”
Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?
Whether it’s the grit of Will Carling in the 90s, the tactical brilliance of Martin Johnson, or the fearless leadership of Owen Farrell, this quiz will challenge even the most dedicated fans.
Think you can name them all? Grab your boots and let’s see how well you know the men who led England into battle on the world stage!
