Contenders, ready! Gladiators, ready! It’s been over 15 years since we’ve heard those iconic words. But this weekend, Gladiators is officially set to return to our screens.
Following weeks of anticipation and teasing, BBC bosses finally confirmed the ’90s classic is back and bigger than ever for its second revamp (let’s not even mention Sky’s version).
While the tried and tested core structure of the original series, which first graced our screens in 1992, remains intact, the BBC’s reincarnation has undergone a few subtle tweaks.
So, from the revamped cast and hosts to the eagerly awaited launch date and beyond, here’s your comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the Gladiators’ comeback.
When Is Gladiators 2024 Starting?
We had to wait a painstakingly long time before the BBC gave us a date for the Gladiators’ third coming. Producers slowly drip-fed news about the star-studded cast to build excitement before finally nailing down a slot.
The Saturday night TV staple will begin on January 13 at 5.50 pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. A large chunk of the filming for the new series took place in and around the spring school holidays at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
Gladiators Cast 2024
Unfortunately, the original super-human cast won’t be making a comeback. Instead, get ready to meet 16 new gladiators, including some familiar faces.
As you may know, YouTube heavyweight Matt Morsia, or MattDoessFitness, is gearing up to don spandex and push his limits. Adopting the title ‘Legend,’ this former PE teacher has some sizeable shoes to fill.
He’ll be joined by the likes of Jamie Christian Johal, known as Giant on the show. Aptly named, this towering figure stands at an impressive 6ft 5in, making history as one of the all-time tallest bodybuilders.
Team GB sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who will go by the name Nitro, won BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year in 2005 at just 17 years old.
Joining the buffed roster is Emily Steel, a CrossFit enthusiast and swimmer known as Dynamite for her explosive energy. Notably, Jodie ‘Fury’ Ounsley is set to make history as the show’s inaugural deaf Gladiator.
Injuries are an occupational hazard for Gladiators, and two contestants had to withdraw from filming after picking up knocks.
Former gymnast Ella-Mae Rayner, aka Comet, “sustained a severe foot injury” while filming one of the games, while Sheli ‘Sabre’ McCoy tore her hamstring.
The BBC released the following statement at the time: “The health and well-being of all Gladiators, contenders, and crew is of paramount importance.
“Gladiators is one of the toughest and most physically demanding programs on TV, and due to the high-impact nature of the show, it is not unusual for those competing to suffer injuries.
“In each instance, as soon as it became apparent that a potential injury had occurred, the correct protocol was immediately followed.”
The Full Cast is as follows:
- Athena (Karenjeet Kaur Bains)
- Comet (Ella-Mae Raynor)
- Diamond (Livi Sheldon)
- Dynamite (Emily Steel)
- Electro (Jade Packer)
- Fire (Montell Douglas)
- Fury (Jodie Ounsley)
- Sabre (Sheli McCoy)
- Apollo (Alex Gray)
- Bionic (Matty Campbell)
- Giant (Jamie Christian Johal)
- Legend (Matt Morsia)
- Nitro (Harry Aikines-Aryeetey)
- Phantom (Toby Olubi)
- Steel (Zack George)
- Viper (Quang Luong)
Presiding over this powerful bunch is English netball player Sonia Mkoloma, Men’s Health cover star Lee Phillips and former Premier League and UEFA Champions League final referee Mark Clattenburg.
Who Will Host The New Series Of Gladiators?
At the helm of this highly anticipated comeback are the dynamic father-and-son duo, Bradley and Barney Walsh. A former footballer, actor, and singer, Bradley is best known for hosting the popular quiz show ‘The Chase’.
He’s already appeared alongside Barney on ITV’s Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad, so the pair will be more than comfortable filling the boots of Ulrika Jonsson, John Fashanu, and Jeremy Guscott.
Speaking about the role, Barney said: “Gladiators has been a massive part of our family and it’s an honour to be asked to co-host this iconic show. I’m so excited for everyone to see the spectacle, elite athletes and fantastic family entertainment that is GLADIATORS.”
What Is New About Gladiators 2024?
In the upcoming series, brace yourselves for a mix of fresh and classic games, including the iconic obstacle course, The Eliminator.
Speaking about the return, BBC director Kate Phillips said: “Gladiators is back and a whole new generation of viewers can now look forward to watching a Saturday night spectacle like no other.
“Will the contenders have the will and the skill to succeed against our mighty new Gladiators? You’ll have to tune in to find out!”
Dan Baldwin, managing director of producers Hungry Bear, added: “It’s the perfect time for Gladiators to return. What other show combines electric excitement, superheroes, giant sponge fingers, elite athletes, and a pinch of pantomime?
“Watch out for the new breed of superhuman, supersized, superstars bursting onto your screens.”
