Get ready for a thrilling revival of one of the most iconic sports entertainment gameshows in television history—Gladiators is back, and it’s found its new home on the BBC iPlayer! This revamped series introduces a fresh generation of superhuman Gladiators, ready to go head-to-head against a courageous line-up of contenders in the ultimate test of speed and strength. With a mix of brand-new games and the return of classic challenges, Gladiators is set to deliver heart-pumping action like never before. Join us as we meet the new Gladiators, ready to make their mark on this legendary arena!
What do we know about the Gladiators?
Gladiators, a compelling sports entertainment gameshow, is making its triumphant return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer with 11 episodes of thrilling competition. Hosted by the dynamic father-and-son duo, Bradley and Barney Walsh, the show introduces a new generation of superhuman Gladiators. In this exciting revival, 16 phenomenal Gladiators will engage in a series of brand new challenges, alongside classic games, all set to push their limits against a brave group of contenders. The ultimate test of strength and speed awaits both Gladiators and contenders, promising an action-packed viewing experience. Get ready for a riveting journey as Gladiators returns with a perfect blend of classic games and new challenges.
BBC Gladiators release date
Prepare for an exciting showdown as Gladiators makes its triumphant return on Saturday, January 13, 2024, launching on both BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The iconic sports entertainment gameshow will kick off with the first whistle, marking the beginning of an exciting series filled with intense competition. BBC iPlayer provides a free trial to its new users which allows them to watch the show for free and after the trial period it has the following subscription price plan. Furthermore, BBC iPlayer has multiple device compatibility for the feasibility of the users and allows you to cancel the subscription plan if you do not wish to continue.
Meet the new Gladiators
Meet the line-up of the new Gladiators, a group of superhuman competitors gearing up to unleash their strength and prowess in the arena. These phenomenal individuals will take on a series of brand-new challenges and classic games, providing contenders with the ultimate test of speed and strength.
1. Apollo
- Hometown: County Durham
- Height: 6ft 6ins (201cm)
- Key Attributes: Ambition, excellence, and courage
Apollo is reminiscent of Superman but with a humorous twist. Towering at 6ft 6ins and embodying ambition, excellence, and courage, he is a formidable presence. Apollo’s impressive physical ability allows him to jump 2.8 meters from a standing position, surpassing the length of a ping pong table. His favourite hobby is dominating his contenders, showcasing his strength and agility. Moreover, Apollo’s childhood was marked by a deep fascination with the original Gladiators show, which he watched religiously. His first encounter with the new series’ set left him awestruck, particularly the Arena with its epic scale. Working with hosts Barney and Bradley Walsh was a delightful experience filled with humour and professionalism.
2. Athena
- Hometown: Warwickshire
- Height: 5ft 4ins (162cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength
Athena, named after the Greek goddess of war and wisdom, combines class, composure, and a regal demeanor. She stands at 5ft 4ins and is known for her exceptional strength, capable of lifting 175kg, equivalent to 1875 tins of soup. Athena’s strategic approach in competitions involves outsmarting her opponents. Her motivation to become a Gladiator stems from her desire to be a role model, especially coming from a diverse minority background. Furthermore, she encourages younger viewers to persevere regardless of their starting point in life. Athena describes the new series as nostalgic yet dramatic, promising an adrenaline-filled experience for the audience.
3. Bionic
- Hometown: Middlesborough
- Height: 6ft 6ins (198cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength and power
Bionic, a 6ft 6ins powerhouse, is described as a machine-like competitor. His key attributes include immense strength and power, evident in his ability to deadlift 300kg, comparable to lifting 66 PS5 consoles. Bionic excels in games like Duel and Gauntlet, requiring both strength and agility. He eagerly anticipated mastering classic challenges, particularly Gauntlet, which demands quickness and good foot placement. Bionic’s interactions with referees, especially Mark Clattenburg, were marked by playful rivalry due to their football team affiliations.
4. Comet
- Hometown: Hertfordshire
- Height: 5ft 8ins (172cm)
- Key Attributes: Flexibility, strength, and dynamism
Comet, standing at 5ft 8ins, embodies femininity, strength, and elegance. Her character is a blend of a perfectionist, poised, and elegant persona, with a friendly yet formidable presence in competitions. Comet’s experience as a Gladiator, akin to being a real-life superhero, is a dream come true, aligning with her background in sport and fitness. Moreover, her memorable moments include the exhilarating experience of first entering the Arena and interacting with the crowd. Working with hosts Barney and Bradley Walsh was comforting and insightful, providing her with valuable industry tips.
5. Diamond
- Hometown: Worcestershire
- Height: 6ft (182cm)
- Key Attributes: Determination, power, and a big heart
Diamond, with a height of 6ft, is characterized by her determination, power, and a compassionate nature. She can squat 120kg, akin to carrying a jaguar on her back. Her journey to becoming a Gladiator was driven by a desire to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their goals fearlessly. Diamond’s strengths lie in her speed, strength, and versatility. Competing in the Utilita Arena Sheffield in front of a live audience was an exhilarating experience for her, feeding off the energy of the crowd. The new series promises classic elements like foam fingers and chants, ensuring an engaging experience for the viewers. Diamond’s performance is a blend of strength and agility, shaped by her diverse athletic background.
6. Dynamite
- Hometown: Manchester
- Height: 5ft 5ins (165cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength
Dynamite, standing at 5ft 5ins, is a force to be reckoned with, capable of lifting 160kg, equivalent to 6.5 bags of cement. She joined the Gladiators to inspire young girls, showcasing that strength and fitness are attainable goals. Despite her small stature and shy nature, Dynamite is fierce in competition, often underestimated due to her appearance. Additionally, she views fellow Gladiators Diamond and Sabre as formidable opponents due to their strength and competitive mindset. Dynamite is excited about the new games in the series, particularly The Edge and Collision, which she finds exhilarating and fun.
7. Electro
- Hometown: Essex
- Height: 5ft 8ins (172cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength, Skill, Determination
Electro, with a height of 5ft 8ins, is known for her strength, skill, and determination, capable of squatting 100kg. Her motivation to become a Gladiator was fueled by the desire to inspire others in their fitness journeys. Memorable moments from filming include the excitement and camaraderie during The Eliminator. Moreover, Electro was confident in her abilities, emphasizing the importance of mindset and adaptability. She describes the series as a nostalgic yet modern take on the original, highlighting the diversity and unique backgrounds of the new Gladiators.
8. Fire
- Hometown: London
- Height: 5ft 10ins (177cm)
- Key Attributes: Speed
Fire, standing at 5ft 10ins, is known for her exceptional speed, capable of running 100m in 11.05 seconds. She describes herself as a playful and fierce competitor, full of energy and compassion. Fire aims to entertain and inspire the audience, bringing a sense of excitement and drama to the show. She regards Fury as a challenging opponent due to her experience in contact sports. Moreover, Fire promises that the new series will be a wild and nostalgic experience, reminiscent of the original show but with a contemporary twist.
9. Fury
- Hometown: West Yorkshire
- Height: 5ft 7ins (170cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength, Agility
Fury, at 5ft 7ins, is the first deaf Gladiator, which she considers her superpower. Her motivation to join the Gladiators was influenced by her father, a former contender. She describes the new series as savage, exciting, and fresh, maintaining the essence of the original while adding a modern twist. Fury excels in The Ring, a game that plays to her strengths in tackling. Competing in front of a live audience in Sheffield was exhilarating for her, and she felt proud to represent the deaf community.
10. Giant
- Hometown: Derbyshire
- Height: 6ft 5ins (195cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength, Power
Giant, towering at 6ft 5ins, is known for his immense strength and power, consuming over 10,000 calories a day. He admired Hunter and Panther from the original Gladiators series, with whom he shared a personal connection. Giant views fellow Gladiators Nitro and Steel as his toughest competitors due to their athleticism and versatility. Memorable moments from filming include feeling the pressure of performing in front of original Gladiator Saracen. Working with Barney and Bradley Walsh was a great experience for Giant, adding humor and entertainment to the show.
11. Legend
- Hometown: Surrey
- Height: 6ft 1ins (185cm)
- Key Attributes: Athleticism, Showmanship
Legend, with a height of 6ft 1ins, is known for his exceptional athletic ability, capable of triple jumping over 50 feet. His motivation to become a Gladiator stemmed from a lifelong ambition, having been a fan of the original series since childhood. Performing in front of a live audience at the Utilita Arena Sheffield was a dream come true for him, combining his love for showcasing talent and engaging with the crowd. Working with Barney and Bradley Walsh was a great experience, highlighting their professionalism and humor.
12. Nitro
- Hometown: London
- Height: 5ft 11ins (180cm)
- Key Attributes: Energy, Speed
Nitro, standing at 5ft 11ins, is the embodiment of energy and explosiveness, known for his high vertical jump of 42 inches. He brings a vibrant and positive energy to the games, engaging both contestants and the audience. Nitro excels in games like The Wall and The Ring, where his speed and agility are his greatest assets. Furthermore, he views fellow Gladiator Steel as a formidable yet polite competitor, reflecting their friendly nature.
13. Phantom
- Hometown: London
- Height: 6ft 5ins (195cm)
- Key Attributes: Versatility, Mysteriousness
Phantom, towering at 6ft 5ins, is known for his mysterious and elusive character, with the longest wingspan of all the Gladiators at 2 meters. He describes the new series as explosive, evolutionary, and epic. Phantom sees himself as a hybrid of all Gladiators, possessing a combination of their strengths. He excels in Duel, where his focus and rapid movements make him a formidable opponent. Phantom would least like to go up against Fire, as they share similar traits.
14. Sabre
- Hometown: Dundee
- Height: 5ft 7ins (170cm)
- Key Attributes: Playfulness, Athleticism
Sabre, at 5ft 7ins, is known for her playful yet competitive nature, capable of deadlifting 160kg. She became a Gladiator not by choice but felt it was her destiny, aiming to be the best version of herself and inspire younger females. Sabre was confident in her ability to deliver world-class athletic performances, influenced by her admiration for the athletic women in the original Gladiators series.
15. Steel
- Hometown: Leicestershire
- Height: 6ft (182cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength, Friendliness
Steel, with a height of 6ft, is known for his strength and friendly demeanor, capable of lifting 220kg. His journey to becoming a Gladiator was inspired by overcoming personal challenges and his admiration for the original series. Steel is competitive yet gracious, and he would least like to go up against Nitro due to his speed and power. Competing in front of a live audience at the Utilita Arena Sheffield was a fulfilling experience for him, especially interacting with the fans.
16. Viper
- Hometown: Surrey
- Height: 6ft (182cm)
- Key Attributes: Strength, Intimidation
Viper, standing at 6ft, is known for his intimidating presence and strength, capable of bench pressing 150kg. He was a fan of Wolf from the original Gladiators series and now embodies the role of the antagonist in the new series. Viper’s character is described as mean, moody, sneaky, and powerful. His most memorable moments from filming are succinctly expressed with a simple “Grunt,” reflecting his terse and formidable persona.
Summing it up!
As we meet the new Gladiators, the anticipation for the iconic sports entertainment gameshow, has reached fever pitch. Brace yourselves for the first whistle on Saturday, January 13, 2024, as the arena roars to life, and the battle between Gladiators and contenders unfolds. Get ready to witness a thrilling display of speed, strength, and sheer determination that will leave you on the edge of your seat – Gladiators is back, and the action is about to begin!
