Iconic TV show Gladiators is set to make a grand return to screens on Saturday with a BBC reboot, over three decades since it first aired.
Attracting over 14 million viewers in its heyday, the cast of the original ITV show quickly became household names.
On the original Gladiators, members of the public battled it out against the show’s cast of bodybuilders and gymnasts.
With excitement building over the BBC show, which was filmed at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena for an 11-episode series, it is hard not to remember the originals who made Gladiators what it was.
But where are they now? Find out by reading on…
Gladiators was watched by over 14 million viewers and was hosted by Ulrika Jonsson and John Fashanu as well as featuring gruff referee John Anderson – so where are they all now?
Show legend Jet, real name Diane Youdale (left, on the show) revealed in July 2023 that she had married her partner Zoe (far right)
Jet: Diane Youdale
Age: 53
Now: Since her time on Gladiators, Diane Youdale has remained on views’ TV screens and radio airwaves, presenting on BBC Tees and featuring on shows like Look North and Inside Out for the broadcaster.
Diane started out with a career in gymnastics and dance, before rising to stardom as a fitness fanatic, but was later forced to take up presenting and acting after an injury during the show’s live Wembley Arena event in 1996.
She went on to become a PE teaching assistant, before training as a psychotherapist.
Diane hit the headlines again in July 2023, when she revealed that she had got married to her partner Zoe.
The former athlete said on the Chillin’ with Ice podcast announcing their engagement shortly beforehand: ‘Just over a year ago, a gorgeous lady approached me in my local supermarket and over a year later, we’re going to get married’.
With a huge smile on her face she said: ‘We are what we are. It doesn’t matter. And I don’t give a damn.’
Diane admitted that she had previously been ‘put off relationships for life’ after moving to the North of England for a partner only for it to end badly.
She told podcast host Lori Fetrick, who played Ice in American Gladiators: ‘I’m safe and I’m loved and there’s no threat to me anymore and that’s what means the world to me.’
Diane had previously been in a relationship with former Gladiators co-star Hunter, James Crossley.
On the show: Diane sustained a serious neck injury after falling from the Pyramid on the show in 1996, leading to her taking the decision to leave.
She previously said: ‘I was beginning to see more spinal injuries. You can damage your ankle or your knee and it will recover, but breaking your neck – that’s a different story.
‘After my accident, I decided to quit while I could. I decided it wasn’t worth it any more. I wanted to leave while I could still walk out of the studio.’
Fun facts: With 20 years in psychology behind her, Diane landed a regular slot on Big Brother’s Bit On The Side where she would analyse housemates.
Falcon: Bernadette Hunt
Gladiators legend Falcon – real name Bernadette Hunt – tragically died in March 2023 at the age of 59 after being diagnosed with cancer
In March 2023, Gladiators legend Falcon – whose real name was Bernadette Hunt – died aged 59 after battling cancer for ‘a number of years’.
The star appeared on the iconic show from its second series in 1993 and remained an integral part of the programme until it ended.
Bernadette’s death was announced by the partner of her sister Carol in a statement on social media, and paid tribute to one of ‘the loveliest people’ he knew.
The tribute read: ‘I had the privilege to be in her company a few times and I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met.
‘She never had a bad word to say about anyone, indeed she was always known as the nicest Gladiator, always stopping to speak and sign autographs for anyone.’
The Gladiators Instagram page also honoured the star with a sweet tribute.
‘Many fans will remember Falcon as the most lovely, warm, generous person with a beaming smile!’ It read.
‘Our Gladiator family is truly heartbroken with our loss of Bernie.’
Following her time on the show, which ended in 2000, Bernadette retreated out the spotlight to work as a personal trainer.
Speaking about life after Gladiators, Bernadette told the Basingstoke Gazette in 2008: ‘I’m very happy with the work I do now and am always busy. My time is spent as a personal trainer and with my children Adam and Angel.’
She also starred on International Gladiators in 1994 and 1995.
Before becoming a bodybuilder, Bernadette attended the London Contemporary Ballet School from the age of 18.
However, her dreams of becoming a dancer were crushed by a back injury, leading to the change to bodybuilding.
Bernadette won the first competition she entered: Miss Natural Health in 1992.
She went on to win other titles including Miss Novice Britain, Miss London and Home Counties 1992 and Miss South Britain.
Referee: John Anderson
John Anderson was the show’s iconic referee and personally trained the gladiators on the show
Age: 92
Occupation: John was a mentor and coach to athletic stars both prior to appearing on Gladiators, and after his spell on the show.
He previously worked as a teacher and coach for Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games athletes.
In 2015, John suffered a heart attack while out walking his dog, but didn’t even notice for almost two weeks.
In an interview with the Herald the following year, he said: ‘I was walking the dog last June and felt a slightly odd sensation in my right chest.
‘After 10 days – still on the bike and in the gym, walking the dog and mowing the lawn – my wife, Dorothy, insisted I see the doctor. They said I’d had a heart attack. They stuck some stents and I am fine.’
On the show: Talking about his co-stars on the show, he has said: ‘They were very good, they were professionals. They did everything very well, they were easy to work with. I was delighted to work with them’.
Gladiators history: John joined the show when it first launched in 1992 and stayed with it until it wrapped in 2000.
He reprised his role as referee back in 2008 when the show briefly returned on Sky too.
Fun fact: John trained an Olympian at every summer games between 1964 and 2000. He was also a handy footballer and played for Scotland at schoolboy level.
Hunter: James Crossley
Trainer: James spoke to MailOnline recently about how he has turned his skills to yoga in a bid to age ‘pain free’, while his girlfriend is also a yoga teacher
Age: 50
Occupation: James Crossley is a strength and conditioning coach and gong practitioner, often sharing an insight into his healthy lifestyle via social media.
In 2021, he spoke to MailOnline about how he has turned his skills to yoga in a bid to age ‘pain free’, while his girlfriend Arianna is also a yoga teacher.
James previously dated TV personality Dr. Zoe Williams, who often appears on daytime shows such as This Morning, while he also had a romance with Ulrika Jonsson.
While he is currently working in the sports industry, James dabbled in acting following his time in Gladiators, as well as making several other TV appearances as a celebrity guest.
The TV star has his own James Crossley coaching website to help people get fitter, as well as his yoga and gong bath practices.
Comparing his fitness now to when he starred on Gladiators in the 90s, James admitted that it is ‘very different’.
He said: ‘When I did Gladiators I was a machine. I was training twice a day, once with the weights, once with the events training, because the thing with Gladiators is all the events are very unique. My absolute fittest would have been in my late 20s.’
On Gladiators: Discussing his time on the show, he said: ‘The first year I joined I couldn’t do anything – I locked myself away for a year to get better. You can be muscular and look good but it doesn’t mean you can climb those walls.’
Fun facts: James dated the show’s host Ulrika Jonsson, but the pair remained coy on their romance, until she uncovered all in her 2003 autobiography.
He also enjoyed a romance with Jet (Diane) during their time on the show.
Host: Ulrika Jonsson
Ulrika was a TV-AM weather presenter before finding fame as co-host of Gladiators alongside John Fashanu back in 1992
Age: 56
Occupation: Ulrika was a TV-AM weather presenter before finding fame as co-host of Gladiators alongside John Fashanu back in 1992.
She went on to become the team captain of the BBC show Shooting Stars in 1995 on her way to becoming a staple of British television.
The Swedish-born star has appeared on several TV shows including Dancing On Ice, Celebrity Big Brother, Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins and Celebs Go Dating.
Ulrika often hits the headlines, whether it be posting racy snaps on Instagram or speaking her mind in her newspaper column.
Fun fact: Ulrika famously dated Gladiator James Crossley aka Hunter. Speaking of the romance on Vicky Patterson’s The Secret To podcast, she said: ‘Obviously I dated Hunter for about a year and a half and away from the show.
‘He was amazing and the sweetest, sweetest man. He was only 22 I think when I got together with him. Poor boy.’
Panther: Helen O’Reilly
Helen now has her own gym in Uxbridge, London, and travels all across the globe judging bikini girls
Age: 62
Now: Helen, who runs Panthers Gym in Uxbridge, said in a recent interview with a Gladiator’s fan site: ‘I think I’ve changed quite a lot… most people don’t recognise me… age, hair, colour change and of course I don’t wear the trademark Panther Lycra anymore!’
Helen is a champion bodybuilder and became one of Britain’s best, with a number of accolades to her name including Miss Central Britain, Miss Europe, Miss Great Britain, Miss Russia and Miss Universe.
On Gladiators: ‘It was great, it inspired so many people to get into sport, to be able to be strong and feminine at the same time. We still get messages today, 25 years later, of people still being inspired to go to the gym.’
Fun facts: She now has her own gym in Uxbridge, London, where she preps other girls.
She also travels all across the globe judging bikini girls, fitness girls and men’s physique and bodybuilding.
Cobra: Michael Willson
A few years ago, Michael Wilson admitted during a piece in the The Guardian that he was often drunk on Gladiators
Age: 60
Now: Now living in the West Midlands, Michael spends his time making watercolour paintings. He also travels to schools and youth clubs up and down the UK, preaching how keeping fit can be fun.
In 2019, Michael admitted during a piece in the The Guardian that he was often drunk on the show.
He said: ‘I remember looking at The Wall and thinking, “I’ve got to chase this guy up it and I’m bleeding drunk.”
‘We never had to drive anywhere, we had hospitality twice a day so there would be wine and booze and stuff flowing. Ironically, I never used to drink a drop before I joined Gladiators.’
Gladiator history: Thanks to his quick-thinking and agility he became a master of the Hang Tough ring and was also the best Duel podium contender having never been knocked off.
He became a fan-favourite Gladiator alongside the likes of Shadow, Wolf, Jet, Lightning and Hunter.
Fun fact: Proving that good things can come in small packages, Cobra – whose real name is Michael Wilson – didn’t let his height – a relatively small six-foot compared to his Gladiator colleagues – get in the way of victory.
Shadow: Jefferson King
A court heard how Jefferson King was involved in a blackmail plot after a day of smoking drugs ‘degenerated rapidly’
Age: 62
Now: In 2009, Jefferson – aka Shadow – went into rehab and stayed clean, revealing in 2011 that he had beaten his addiction and worked at a rehab clinic to help people suffering from drug problems.
However, he was eventually back on illegal drugs – and was charged with heroin possession.
In 2021, a court heard how he was involved in a blackmail plot after a day of smoking drugs ‘degenerated rapidly’, according to The Sun.
The police released his mugshot, showing him with hollow cheeks and bleary eyes after he admitted taking part in a drug-fuelled blackmail plot.
King had demanded £1,000 in 2022 from a mother for the safe return of her son who was allegedly being held hostage by a gang.
He was sentenced to six years and three months after admitting taking part in the drug-fuelled plan over a debt.
Gladiators history: Jefferson’s Gladiators career fell apart when he was ousted off the programme for taking steroids.
Soon after the drug scandal, a mistress sold a tale of his infidelity to a newspaper and his marriage broke down too.
He said at the time: ‘There is no excuse for cheating. I was mixing with drugs before Gladiators and when I was tested during the show there were no traces of cocaine but they found steroids.’
Fun fact: Jefferson become a wrestler following his TV career and had a cameo role in the Spice Girls’ movie Spiceworld in 1997.
Warrior: Mike Ahearne
In 2018 the shamed former Gladiator Mike Ahearne hit the headlines as a court heard that he was caught by police with shopping bags full of steroids and CS spray canisters
Age: 63
Now: After seven years earning up to £100,000-a-year, Mike Ahearne’s world of celebrity and luxury came crashing down, when he was linked to a corruption scandal.
He was arrested on the afternoon of Thursday, March 13, 1997 and accused of involvement in a plot to foil the prosecution of Philip Glennon Jnr.
Glennon Jnr had been accused of firing a handgun at a bouncer and then a police officer outside a Liverpool nightclub in 1996 and was charged with attempted murder.
Glennon Jnr is the brother-in-law of Liverpool drugs baron Curtis Warren, who tried to foil the investigation by paying corrupt officer Detective Chief Inspector Elmore ‘Elly’ Davies £10,000 to pass on details of what the police knew about the incident, when a doorman was also shot.
Ahearne had passed money from Warren to his friend Davies – then head of Merseyside’s drugs squad – for information about the case.
Following a trial at Nottingham Crown Court in 1998, at which Ahearne decided not to give evidence, the TV star was convicted of an act with tendency to pervert the course of justice and jailed for 15 months.
Davies, also from Oxton, was jailed for five years, while a third man was jailed for three years.
Glennon Jnr was previously jailed for six years for attempted murder.
In 2018, Ahearne hit the headlines again as a court heard that he was caught by police with shopping bags full of steroids and CS spray canisters.
Liverpool Magistrates’ Court heard police raided the former bodybuilder’s home in leafy Rose Mount, Oxton, Wirral on January 23, 2018.
They retrieved a large stash of various anabolic steroids, contained in a plastic Tesco carrier bag, another shopping bag and two boxes.
Ahearne was arrested on suspicion of possessing the Class C drugs with intent to supply, but no charges were brought over the haul.
But he was charged over the CS spray and admitted three counts of possessing a weapon ‘designed or adapted for the discharge of a noxious liquid’.
He was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for 12 months, at Liverpool Crown Court in October 2018 for these offences.
Gladiators History: Ahearne played rugby union for England at youth level before representing Great Britain at Mr Universe.
Standing at 6ft 4in, the ex-doorman was one of the best known faces in Gladiators.
Phoenix: Sandy Young
Sandy now works as a florist and is a mother to two children in the West Midlands according to Gladiator fan sites (pictured right in 2019)
Age: 58
Now: According to Gladiator fan sites, Sandy now works as a florist and is a mother to two children in the West Midlands.
Gladiators history: ‘Phoenix’ was forced to leave the show in late 1992, reportedly for being unable to meet fitness standards.
Years later she was sentenced to 150 hours of community service in 1996 for attacking her ex-husband, Steven Young, due to a custody disagreement over their son.
The kick-boxer and former Bodybuilding Miss UK broke her ex’s ankle in what was described in court as an act of ‘wanton violence and revenge’.
At the time, Steven’s girlfriend Elsa Jones, who was there for the assault, said: ‘She’s a kickboxer and she knew what she was doing. She was certainly making all the right noises.’
Fun fact: Sandy was unbeaten in two new events during ‘Gladiators Live!’ in 1993 at Wembley Arena.
Wolf: Michael Van Wijk
Michael Van Wik now runs his own gym in Auckland, where he currently resides, which is named Wolf’s Gym, after his Gladiators persona
Age: 71
Now : Michael owns a gym called ‘Wolf’s Gym’ in Auckland, New Zealand where he now lives. He had owned gyms previously before finding fame on Gladiators.
Following his time on the show, he became a regular on the Kiwi Cage Fighting scene and also used to compete at national level in Jiu Jitsu championships, according to a 2008 Loaded article.
Michael appeared on Lorraine in 2019 and told the host he would love to revive Gladiators, and said: ‘I would love to do it, I wish the producers would bring it back. You would get all the baby-boomers from the past watching it and you would get a new generation coming up as well.’
However, his offer was reportedly snubbed.
He told GBNews before the new series: ‘I wanted to take part in some shape or form in the new series, or even be a co-host, but when I contacted them, I got no reply.
‘I think they basically wanted to get away from everything to do with the original show and just do it their own way, which is understandable.’
Gladiators history: He starred on the show for seven years and eight series throughout the entire time Gladiators aired on ITV.
Fun facts: Wolf was deemed the most popular gladiator on the series, albeit controversial thanks to his mean persona.
Ace: Warren Furman
Having turned his back on showbusiness, Warren found God and now runs a Gospel choir in York, where he lives with his wife and two kids
Age: 51
Occupation: Having turned his back on showbusiness, Warren found God and now runs a Gospel choir in York, where he lives with his wife and two kids.
Speaking on This Morning previously, he said: ‘I used to worship myself, I thought I was fantastic. I have now turned to God’s grace. I am a Gladiator of the gospel.
‘You’ll never know God until you change your direction and so I realised this. It was great, we had loads of money and women, but I realised I had to change’.
The former construction manager revealed at the start of 2024 that he will be ordained as a Church of England cleric in London’s St Paul’s Cathedral alongside his wife Dionne, who used to work as a Virgin Airways hostess.
Warren, who dated a young Katie Price in the 90s, admitted in 2019 during the appearance that he sometimes struggled to earn £20 an hour since the show finished.
The couple were engaged in the late nineties, with Warren later admitting that he now ‘prays’ for his ex-fiancée amid her hectic lifestyle.
Gladiator history: Four years after the show began in 1996, the blond hunk beat 60 other hopefuls for a place on Gladiators, where he stayed on the series until its end in 2000. He returned for the revival in 2008.
Fun facts: When engaged to Katie, the couple enjoyed a particularly lavish lifestyle. He previously said: ‘We travelled the world first class, went for expensive dinners, had big houses and fancy cars’, yet things later broke off acrimoniously.
He said: ‘We were both deriving our identities from being relevant in the media. We were both selling stories.’
Amazon: Sharron Davies MBE
Prior to heading on to the show, Sharron was a swimmer for Great Britain in the Olympics and European championship
Age: 61
Now: Following her Olympic swimming career and Gladiators stint, Sharron Davies now works as a BBC pundit.
Sharron represented Great Britain in the Olympics and European Championships, as well as for England at the Commonwealth Games.
She has produced various fitness videos and served as a patron of charities for disabled children.
The media personality also organised a support group for parents of young athletes and does after-dinner and motivational speaking.
Sharron has been outspoken on the rights of biological women and has campaigned to stop transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.
In 2023, she backed World Athletics’ decision to exclude transgender athletes from women’s category events – and thanked the organisation for ‘standing up for female athletes’.
Under new rules announced by Sebastian Coe, the governing body’s president, transgender women will be banned from competing in the female category at international athletics events in order to ‘prioritise fairness and the integrity of the female competition before inclusion’.
Writing on Twitter, Ms Davies, who had previously spoke out against the inclusion of trans women in female categories, said: ‘Thank you Seb Coe and World Athletics for standing up for female athletes across the world who are worthy of fair sport.’
She thanked her supporters, adding: ‘Hopefully we have our sport back. Sport is for all but only where you qualify in the fair category for your biological reality. We’ll keep fighting till all girls’ sport is protected.’
Gladiator history: Sharron joined the show in 1995 but a knee injury forced her to withdraw from the show a year later. She famously complained of the health and safety aspects of the show.
Fun fact: The blonde beauty enjoyed a stint on Dancing On Ice in 2011.
The Rhino: Mark Smith
Since appearing on Gladiators, Mark Smith has gone on to bag several acting roles, including appearances on EastEnders, The Bill and Robin Hood
Age: 54
Now: Mark Smith, who now lives in Acton, west London, went on to bag several acting roles after his time as a Gladiator, including starring in EastEnders, The Bill and Robin Hood.
He then set his sights on Hollywood and has featured on high-profile films including Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Argo – directed by Ben Affleck – and Frozen Ground, starring Nicholas Cage.
The TV personality often shares his tips on how to stay healthy in your 50s, sharing an insight into his healthy lifestyle via Instagram.
Gladiator history: Mark featured on the show from 1995 until its finale in 2000.
Fun facts: Rhino was deemed the joker of the Gladiator pack and would have the live audience in fits of giggles with his robotic dancing and body popping moves. Mark was another who enjoyed a fling with Gladiators’ host Ulrika.
Lightning: Kim Betts
Lightning was known as the ‘Queen of Hang Tough’ and remained undefeated in the UK Arena – beaten once in Australia
Age: 52
Now: Kim Betts, who is a gymnast, bodybuilder and TV presenter, is also an Equestrian Yard & Fishery Owner.
The TV star is an Instagram regular and often shares images of her gruelling workouts in the gym. In 2022 Kim was crowned winner of 2020 IBFA Miss Universe.
Gladiators history: She starred on Gladiators from its 1992 launch through to its end, before returning for its revamp eight years later. She was the longest-serving female star of the show.
Fun facts: Lightning was known as the ‘Queen of Hang Tough’ and remained undefeated in the UK Arena – beaten just once in Australia.
She competed in 1999 just three weeks after giving birth to her son, Lexus.
Blaze: Eunice Huthart
Eunice is the the stunt choreographer for Justice League and DC’s upcoming Flash film
Age: 57
Now: Eunice Huthart is the the stunt choreographer for Justice League and DC’s Flash film.
After Gladiators, The Liverpudlian star went on to become a stunt double for A-listers such as Angelina Jolie, Milla Jovovich, Famke Janssen and Uma Thurman. She has starred in films including Golden Eye, Avengers and Titanic.
Gladiators history: Former McDonald’s manager Eunice made her debut on the show in 1994 where she was originally a contender going against one of the Gladiators but became the first ever UK contestant to then become a Gladiator.
Fun fact: Eunice frequently works alongside Angelina Jolie and the pair have become close friends. She is also godmother to Angelina and Brad Pitt’s daughter Shiloh Jolie-Pitt.
Nightshade: Judy Simpson MBE
Judy now spends her time working for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards and is an Honorary President of the Women’s Sports Federation
Age: 63
Occupation: Judy now spends her time working for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards and is an Honorary President of the Women’s Sports Federation. She has been awarded an MBE because of her sporting achievements.
Gladiator history: After retiring from professional sport which included an Olympic heptathlon appearance, she joined Gladiators in 1993, under the alias Nightshade.
She became renowned as one of the toughest female Gladiators ever. Her particular strengths were in Duel, Pole-Axe and Suspension Bridge
Fun fact: Jamaican-born Judy Simpson was one of Britain’s greatest all-round female athletes. The three-time Olympian competed in the Commonwealth Games, European Championships and World Championships.
Vulcan: John Seru
John owns a wrestling school, fitness shop and fitness centre that he has been running for 18 years in Sydney with his family
Age: 60
Now: John owns a wrestling school, fitness shop and fitness centre that he has been running for 18 years in Sydney with his family having previously enjoyed success as an actor.
Gladiator history: In order to give Wolf a run for his money, Australian Gladiator Vulcan was drafted in for seasons seven and eight of the British show.
The former bodybuilder and wrestler did not disappoint, showcasing his skills on the Duel platform and in the Gauntlet.
Fun fact: After he was talent spotted by an acting scout he scooped the role of a James Bond villain. He starred in the 1999’s The World Is Not Enough, playing henchman Gabor.
Rebel: Jennifer Stoute
Jennifer bagged a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 1990 and now runs a management agency for athletes, Stellar Athletics
Age: 58
Now: After the show, Jennifer set up Stellar Athletics Management with ex-partner John Regis and has also been involved with founding the Driven Woman network.
Jennifer had been a sprinter, with a hamstring injury halting her career for two years in 1993. She bagged a gold medal at the 1990 Commonwealth Games and also represented Team GB at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics – winning a 4×400 meter relay bronze in the latter.
Opening up about her time on Gladiator, Jennifer told Athletics Weekly: ‘It was the highlight of my life.
‘After being a sprinter, there was something in me that was unfulfilled and Gladiators gave me that buzz I needed and was kind of like a transition between elite sport and living a normal life.’
Gladiators history: She joined the show in 1996 as Rebel, but chose to continue with athletics while she was competing on the series. Jennifer quit the show in 1999.
Fun facts: Jennifer appeared alongside Russell Crowe in the blockbuster movie Gladiator, directed by Ridley Scott.
Vogue: Suzanne Cox
Suzanne is now an aerobics instructor and had gone on to model and present TV show titled The Fix following Gladiators
Age: 52
Occupation: Suzanne Cox is now an aerobics instructor and had gone on to model and present TV show titled The Fix following Gladiators.
Gladiators history: She joined the show in 1995 and had stayed with the series until it came to an end after its eighth series in 2000.
Fun facts: Suzanne is married to 1997 Gladiators quarter finalist Mark Roberts and they share two children together.
She was a firm favourite among teenage boy viewers and was known for back-flipping while entering the arena to Vogue by Madonna.
Saracen: Michael Lewis
Micahel has swapped his spandex for fire gear as he is now a firefighter following years in the ring
Age: 60
Occupation: Michael Lewis has swapped his spandex for fire gear as he is now a firefighter following years in the ring.
However, he still appears on TV from time to time, such as Sport Relief and This Morning. He also returned to our screens for ITV’s Ninja Warrior.
Speaking about his time on the show previously, he told the Daily Star: ‘One thing producers did force us to do was address each other in character, and we weren’t allowed to come out of that character.
The former bodybuilder added: ‘There were cameras absolutely everywhere in that arena, but when we walked out that was it, I was Saracen.’
Gladiators history: Michael and his girlfriend Chrissie, tried out for the Gladiators show in 1992, Chrissie becoming a first series contender and of course Saracen joining the team. They are now happily married.
Fun fact: Mike tackled the tough Ninja Warrior course in 2015.
MEET THE NEW GLADIATORS
More than two decades after Gladiators first aired, the hit show is coming back on the BBC with a brand new cast.
The iconic show, which originally aired on ITV from 1992 to 2000, is making an epic return to screens with an 11-episode season later this year.
The fearsome group includes trained rugby players, accomplished swimmers, sprinters and powerlifters as well as a former Premier League referee.
Here are the new Gladiators:
Bionic
At a towering 6ft 6in it’s somewhat inevitable that Gladiator Matty Campbell, a professional bodybuilder, has been named Bionic
At a towering 6ft 6in it’s somewhat inevitable that bodybuilder Matty Campbell has been named Bionic.
As a child he used to sprint and play football, reaching Academy Level, but a car accident curtailed his professional ambitions. It was his subsequent rehabilitation that led him to finding an alternative outlet in the gym.
Despite having never previously been a regular visitor to the gym, he found that he had a natural ability and quickly started gaining muscle-mass, leading to his eventual love of bodybuilding,
He said: ‘Never in a million years did I expect to get the call to be a Gladiator, it’s a feeling that’ll never sink in. I’m just a normal lad from Teesside! A
‘ll the training and hard work has finally paid off for me, I can’t wait to get started!’
Electro
Jade Packer, aka Electro, is a quick, unstoppable and the perfect mix of strength, speed and skill
Currently working as a sports model, fitness coach and hybrid athlete, she began her journey as a sprinter
Jade Packer, aka Electro, is a quick, unstoppable and the perfect mix of strength, speed and skill.
Currently working as a sports model, fitness coach and hybrid athlete, she began her journey as a sprinter.
Her speed led to her being ranked amongst the Top 10 Fastest Runners in the UK aged 12 for 150m and she went onto to race for titles at various championships over the 100m and 200m.
Her bodybuilding journey began at the age of 18 after she discovered the sport on social media platform Instagram, and her subsequent dedication to training won her 4 x Top 3 UKBFF Placings in the Wellness Category, an invite to compete at the Arnold Classic and an IFBB Elite Pro Card by taking Gold at the English Grand Prix.
After training for only a year before her first show, she became an instant sensation and went on to represent the UK in both Barcelona and Madrid throughout her 2 seasons.
Now training in CrossFit, with a unique hybrid-style that incorporates her athletic background, she still describes running as ‘her forte.’
She said: ‘I hope Electro can spark an unstoppable pursuit for a new generation of athletes. I’m ready to light up the arena with a different kind of energy.’
Phantom
Toby Olubi, aka Phantom, was part of the Team GB Bobsleigh team and competed in the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics
‘We will be given the biggest entertainment platform to represent that ethos and I couldn’t be more proud and grateful to be a Gladiator…. Let the show begin!!’
Toby Olubi, aka Phantom, was part of the Team GB Bobsleigh team and competed in the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics.
In the same season, he and his team broke the world record for the fastest ever bobsleigh at 97 mph. They also made history by bringing home Great Britain’s first-ever gold medal in the 2018 Whistler World Cup.
He has also been a sprinter a domestic level and has won the county championship for the UK men’s 60m sprints and has frequently competed in the British men’s 100m sprint Olympic qualifying championships.
Additionally, the fitness nut has also won the title of fastest Bobsledder in the UK push championships for four consecutive years from 2015 to 2019.
He said: ‘This is a dream come true for me. I’m a 90’s kid so the Gladiators of past were my version of real life superheroes. Now I’ve got the chance to don the big “G” and be an inspirational figure myself.
‘Gladiators is all about stepping up against the odds and bringing the best version of yourself.
‘We will be given the biggest entertainment platform to represent that ethos and I couldn’t be more proud and grateful to be a Gladiator…. Let the show begin!!’
Viper
For the past 15 years, Quang Luong, aka Viper, has dedicated his life to fitness, spending each day perfecting the art of bodybuilding
For the past 15 years, Quang Luong, aka Viper, has dedicated his life to fitness, spending each day perfecting the art of bodybuilding.
A fitness model and practicing boxer, he’s often been cast in films in powerful roles, even appearing in a James Bond film as a gangster. Alongside his power and precision he’s looking to devour his competitors.
He said: ‘I was born to be a Gladiator. I am strong, powerful and just like a Viper I can attack with speed.’
Athena
A combination of brain, brawn and beauty, Karenjeet Kaur Bains gets her Gladiators moniker from the Ancient Greek Goddess of War and Wisdom, Athena
Representing Team GB, she is a winner of three Gold and two Silver Commonwealth Powerlifting medals
She’s also the five time All England Powerlifting Champion and five time British Powerlifting Champion
A combination of brain, brawn and beauty, Karenjeet Kaur Bains gets her moniker from the Ancient Greek Goddess of War and Wisdom, Athena.
Representing Team GB, she is a winner of three Gold and two Silver Commonwealth Powerlifting medals.
She’s also the five time All England Powerlifting Champion and five time British Powerlifting Champion and represented Great Britain at the World and European Championships.
Additionally, she holds the Guinness World Record for the “Most Bodyweight Squats in a minute”… oh, and did we mention she’s also a Chartered Accountant!
Very proud of her South Asian heritage, she makes show history as the first Sikh Gladiator and wants to inspire people of all ethnic backgrounds to achieve their full potential.
She said: ‘I represent all those from diverse and minority backgrounds, especially women, that have ever been denied the opportunity to pursue their dreams in sport.
‘I hope I can be a role model and show the levels a female can achieve, if she is given the opportunity to follow her passion and given the wings to fly!’
Comet
Ella-Mae Rayner, aka Comet, has also been unveiled as one of the new Gladiators
A former elite gymnast, Ella-Mae moved into semi-professional in diving before embarking on a degree in Sport Science
She now trains six times a week while also working as a Fitness Model & Coach
A former elite gymnast, Ella-Mae Rayner moved into semi-professional in diving before embarking on a degree in Sport Science.
At university she successfully coached and competed in University Cheerleading Championships, but it was a career changing ankle injury that led to a newfound love of the gym.
She now trains six times a week while also working as a Fitness Model & Coach.
She said: ‘’m absolutely thrilled to be Comet. I loved watching Gladiators growing up. I specifically remember Jet, she was an icon for me as a child and one of the reasons I become a gymnast.
‘I can’t believe I will be following in her footsteps. It really is a dream come true.’
Sabre
‘I truly hope Sabre will inspire and empower the younger generation of strong capable females just as the gladiators I once watched inspired me’
Sabre has competed in 5 British Weightlifting Championships events and numerous CrossFit championships all over the world
Fierce, powerful and agile; these are the main attributes of Sabre. Sheli McCoy describes herself as a ‘grafter’ and trains 16-19 hours per week
Fierce, powerful and agile; these are the main attributes of Sabre.
Sheli McCoy describes herself as a ‘grafter’ and trains 16-19 hours per week.
She has competed in 5 British Weightlifting Championships events and numerous CrossFit championships all over the world and has simultaneously been Scottish champion in both sports.
Sabre runs her own gym in Dundee, hoping to inspire future generations to reach their full fitness potential.
She has nearly 100,000 followers and loves to post videos of her workouts whether it be lifting heavy weights, doing pull ups from the bar or upside down handstands.
She says: ‘I truly hope Sabre will inspire and empower the younger generation of strong capable females just as the gladiators I once watched inspired me to be a confident athletic women. It is Sabre’s time to shine – here come the powerful girls.’
Apollo
With the speed of a rocket, it’s no surprise Alex Gray has earned the name Apollo
He captained English Rugby teams for 16’s, 18’s and 20’s. He was scouted to go to NFL for his skillset, making him the first British rugby player to transfer over to the NFL
With the speed of a rocket, it’s no surprise Alex Gray has earned the name Apollo.
He started his career playing rugby under 16s and moved onto the Premiership and then England 7s team. He captained English Rugby teams for 16’s, 18’s and 20’s.
He was scouted to go to NFL for his skillset, making him the first British rugby player to transfer over to the NFL.
Signed for Atlantic Falcons and then became the first international player to Captain an NFL team.
Apollo wants to win and won’t stop until he does. Don’t be fooled by his smile and charm, if you’re in his way he’ll take you down.
Apollo says: ‘Gladiator ready?? You better believe I am!! After playing Rugby and In the NFL, the opportunity to inspire as Apollo is a dream come true. I plan on leading from the front and never giving up’.
Dynamite
Small, explosive and dangerous, just like Dynamite, 20-year-old, Emily Steel, is the youngest Gladiator in the current line-up
With a background in swimming competing at a national level until she was 15 years old, she’s now a full-time elite CrossFit athlete
Emily boasts 7,000 Instagram followers and regularly shares snaps of herself weightlifting or of her toned figure
Small, explosive and dangerous, just like Dynamite, 20-year-old, Emily Steel, is the youngest Gladiator in the current line-up.
With a background in swimming competing at a national level until she was 15 years old, she’s now a full-time elite CrossFit athlete, also juggling second year studies full time at university in sport and exercise science.
Emily boasts 7,000 Instagram followers and regularly shares snaps of herself weightlifting.
Dynamite recently competed internationally at one of the largest fitness festivals in the world and becoming an under 23’s weightlifting British record holder.
Don’t underestimate Dynamite. She may look small, but she’ll blast into the competition and obliterate her opponents.
Dynamite says: ‘I’m too young to remember the original Gladiators, but my parents loved it and suggested I try out. Dynamite really does represent who I am and I’m excited to showcase what I can do in the games.’
Nitro
Nitro is a team GB sprinter called Harry Aikines Aryeetey (pictured)
Nitro is a team GB sprinter called Harry Aikines Aryeetey. Commonwealth and World gold medallist sprinter, Harry’s lightning fast speed and ‘ball of energy’ personality earned him the name Nitro.
The athlete has competed at the highest level in the UK since his youth. After becoming the first athlete to win gold medals at both 100 and 200 metres at the World Youth Championships, he won 2005 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year age 17.
Harry has gone on to win gold 4 x in the men’s 100m European Championships and at the Commonwealth Games.
His long list of achievements include: 2 x Olympian, 3 x European Champion, 2x Commonwealth Champion, 1x Commonwealth Silver Medallist, 1x European Bronze Medallist, 1x World Bronze Medallist, 1x British Champion, 2x World Youth Champion, 1x World Junior Champion.
With his incredible speed and agility, the Contenders will have their work cut out, getting past social media-star Nitro, who boasts 253,000 Instagram followers.
Commonwealth and World gold medallist sprinter, Harry’s lightning fast speed and ‘ball of energy’ personality earned him the name Nitro
The fitness fanatic shares a two-year old daughter named Aubreé-Isla with his partner
The fitness fanatic – who shares a two-year old daughter named Aubreé-Isla with his partner – regularly posts insights into his grueling training routine.
On taking part in the show, Nitro said: ‘Becoming a Gladiator is another great achievement!
‘A childhood dream come true! You never know what is coming in life, each day is there to be enjoyed and savouring all opportunities is a must!
‘It literally gives me energy and strength! I can’t wait to be in the arena and bring Nitro to Gladiators!’
Diamond
Dazzling her way into the Gladiators stadium is Livi Sheldon, a 6ft bodybuilder. With her striking looks and indestructible natural earning her the name, Diamond
Livi – who regularly shares fitness tips on social media – is in a relationship with men’s lifestyle coach Grant Gibbs
Dazzling her way into the Gladiators stadium is Livi Sheldon. She is a 6ft bodybuilder, with her striking looks and indestructible natural earning her the name, Diamond.
After graduating with a degree in Sports Science, Livi took up bodybuilding, becoming a British Finalist ‘England Toned Figure’.
Her passion for sports began at age 6, when she played football for a boys football team. She eventually moved over to a girls’ team, where she became captain for many years, and went on to play for Worcester City Ladies team.
However, don’t be deceived by Diamond’s bright beauty, she is unbreakable and super strong.
On joining Gladiators, Livi said: – ‘When I was growing up I used to get picked on for being taller than everyone else.
‘Now I get to show everyone that being unique is your superpower. I can’t wait to get into the arena and take on the contenders as Diamond’
Livi – who regularly shares fitness tips on social media – is in a relationship with men’s lifestyle coach Grant Gibbs.
Giant
On Thursday, Giant, (pictured) Fire and Legend joined the line-up of super-fit TV titans ahead of the iconic show’s hotly anticipated return
Giant made history by becoming one of the all-time tallest bodybuilders
Pictured with his wife, Katie Christian, whose Instagram handle is @ hormonehealer_
Giant is a former firefighter turned bodybuilder called Jamie Christian Johal.
Standing at 6ft 5inches, it’s no wonder he was given the name Giant. He made history by becoming one of the all-time tallest bodybuilders.
Now he’s bringing that power into the Gladiators arena. He may look like a big, friendly giant, but don’t be fooled, he won’t be holding back when it comes to the games.
Giant said: ‘I feel like everything in life has lead me here. I’m honoured to be part of this iconic show that I watched as a child. I’ll be bringing my GIANT stature and personality so contenders better come prepared!’
Fire
Blazing into the Gladiators stadium like a flash is Montell Douglas. She’s fierce and will burn through the arena destroying anyone who gets in her way, earning her the name Fire
Former Team GB Sprinter and Olympic Bobsledder, she held the British woman’s record for fastest 100m sprint at 11.05 seconds
Blazing into the Gladiators stadium like a flash is Montell Douglas. She’s fierce and will burn through the arena destroying anyone who gets in her way, earning her the name Fire.
Former Team GB Sprinter and Olympic Bobsledder, she held the British woman’s record for fastest 100m sprint at 11.05 seconds, smashing the previous record which had stood unbeaten for 27 years.
In January 2022, Montell made sporting history to become the first female UK athlete to compete at both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games.
In 2010, Montell won Commonwealth Gold in the 4x100m relay race in Delhi – and holds a European Under-23 Silver Medal in 100m.
Montell moved into bobsledding in 2016, and the following year finished within the Top 10 at her World Cup debut.
When competing at the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022, Montell returned to the city where she had competed 14 years previously at the 2008 Summer Olympics
When competing at the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022, Montell returned to the city where she had competed 14 years previously at the 2008 Summer Olympics.
She loves inspiring women to achieve their dreams, no matter what age, height or background they’re from.
The show claims that contenders should beware of Fire. She’s fast, unpredictable and dangerous and will ravage anyone in her path.
Fire said: ‘I’m so pleased I’ve been asked to be Fire! Being a gladiator has been a secret lifelong dream of mine.
‘As a strong and powerful woman, I’m living proof that you can achieve your dreams, no matter what age or background, if you believe and keep pushing. I’m ready to light up the competition!’
Legend
Training up to six times a week in bodybuilding and powerlifting, former international athlete, Matt Morsia describes himself as a Legend – hence the name!
Matt pictured with his wife Sarah on holiday – they have two children together
In 2020, he released his first book, ‘The 24/7 Body’. Bringing all his power and strength to the series, the contenders will not forget Legend
The trio were revealed for the first time on This Morning
Giant, Fire and Legend join the previously announced Fury and Steel as part of the new generation of mighty Gladiators ready to challenge a brave set of contenders
Giant showed off his duelling skills on the show
Meet Legend. Training up to six times a week in bodybuilding and powerlifting, former international athlete, Matt Morsia describes himself as a Legend – hence the name!
The former Championship bronze medal winning long and triple jumper, and silver medal winning powerlifter, loved the ‘showmanship’ of competing.
After retiring from international competitions, he continued performing to a huge audience becoming highly successful fitness influencer and professional YouTuber – amassing over 355 million views.
In 2020, he released his first book, ‘The 24/7 Body’. Bringing all his power and strength to the series, the contenders will not forget Legend.
He said: ‘I’ve been training like a beast for the show but realistically I didn’t need to. I could’ve spent the last two months eating doughnuts and playing Dungeons & Dragons and I’d still be better than everyone else.
‘I’m called Legend for a reason! I can only apologise for the irreparable damage I’m about to do to the contenders. Actually, that’s a lie, I’m not sorry at all. I’m actively looking forward to it’.
OGs: The iconic show, which originally aired on ITV from 1992 to 2000, is making an epic return to screens after 23 years on the BBC (The original Gladiators in 1994)
Fury
Professional Exeter Chiefs Rugby Player, Jodie Ounsley, has joined the line-up as her alter-ego ‘Fury’, named thanks to her power and passion for competition
The professional Exeter Chiefs rugby player, 22, has been deaf from birth and wears a cochlear implant
Last but certainly not least, meet Fury aka Jodie Ounsley.
Jodie joined the line-up as the alter-ego name thanks to her power and passion for competition.
The professional Exeter Chiefs rugby player, 22, has been deaf from birth and wears a cochlear implant.
Announcing the news to her Instagram, Jodie wrote: ‘Ready to unleash the Fury tomorrow’.
In December 2023, Jodie broke down in tears as she tried ‘life-changing’ new technology ahead of appearing on the rebooted TV show.
She became emotional as she put on glasses which allow deaf people to ‘see’ conversations for the first time, developed by British start-up XRAI Glass.
She then told XRAI Glass’s co-founder Mitchell Feldman: ‘That’s pretty amazing… As much as I love to embrace my deafness and be positive about it, it’s a really isolating place at times.
‘You miss out on a lot and it’s a mental journey trying to lip read. Something like this could really make it so much easier.’
Steel
Meanwhile, joining Jodie’s Fury is UK CrossFit star Zack George, who’s set to intimidate the contestants as his alter-ego Steel
Zack eventually caught the exercise bug and soon became a devotee of CrossFit, a fitness regimen focused on performing functional movements performed at a high intensity
Zack underwent a fitness transformation after admitting he lead an ‘unhealthy lifestyle’ in his youth
And finally… meet Zack George, a UK CrossFit star.
Zack eventually caught the exercise bug and soon became a devotee of CrossFit, a fitness regimen focused on performing functional movements performed at a high intensity.
He was named as champion in UK CrossFit in 2020 and will be showcasing his athleticism further on Gladiators.
Zack underwent a fitness transformation after admitting he lead an ‘unhealthy lifestyle’ in his youth.
