Get ready for action-packed thrills as Gladiators returns with a brand-new reboot, airing on BBC One and iPlayer! The second season kicks off on Saturday, 18 January 2025. It brings the intense competition to a whole new generation of fans.
Originally airing from 1992 to 2000, Gladiators became a cultural phenomenon, making household names out of its champions. The general public contestants faced off against highly trained Gladiators. They participated in high-energy challenges that tested their strength, speed, and stamina. The competition culminated in the ultimate test—the Eliminator, a grueling obstacle course that separated the amateurs from the professionals.
Fast forward over 30 years, and Gladiators has returned with a new roster of supercharged Gladiators. There is a fresh batch of contestants and updated twists. The reboot has already made waves, with 8.7 million viewers tuning in to the first episode in 2024. This season promises even more excitement with new challenges, fan-favorite events, and a revamped Eliminator.
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Meet the Gladiators of 2025 Season 2
This year’s Gladiators lineup includes 16 fierce competitors, each with their own distinct style and background. These athletes bring everything from bodybuilding and rugby to Olympic bobsledding and track & field skills to the arena. Here are some of the stars you’ll see in action:
- Bionic – Matty Campbell (Age: 29) – Bionic’s incredible strength earned him his name. It is likened to that of a machine. After a car accident halted his football career, Matty found a new passion in bodybuilding. His hard work has led him to become one of the most formidable Gladiators.
- Electro – Jade Packer (Age: 26) – Jade’s combination of speed, strength, and agility has earned her the nickname Electro. As a bodybuilder, sports model, fitness coach, and CrossFit athlete, Jade is ready to electrify the arena.
- Phantom – Toby Olubi (Age: 37) – Toby, an Olympian bobsledder, brings speed and strength to the Gladiators team. A former member of Team GB, he’s known for his bobsleigh prowess and sprinting skills.
- Viper – Quang Long – Quang is a seasoned athlete and fitness model, known for his precision and lightning-fast reactions. With 15 years of bodybuilding under his belt, Quang is ready to strike with the speed of a Viper.
- Comet – Ella-Mae Rayner (Age: 29)
Former gymnast and semi-professional diver, Ella-Mae brings agility and strength as Comet. A fitness enthusiast, she’s thrilled to step into the shoes of the iconic Jet, a childhood inspiration. - Athena – Karenjeet Kaur Bains (Age: 28)
Karenjeet, a powerlifting champion, represents strength, intelligence, and beauty. She holds a Guinness World Record for most squats in a minute. She’s a true powerhouse both in and out of the arena. - Sabre – Sheli McCoy (Age: 36)
Weightlifting champion Sheli brings agility and power to the Gladiators team. With years of training and a passion for inspiring younger generations, Sheli’s ready to make an impact. - Apollo – Alex Gray (Age: 33).
Alex was a former rugby and NHL player. His competitive spirit and athleticism make him a natural Gladiator. Known for his speed and determination, Apollo is here to lead and inspire. - Dynamite – Emily Steel (Age: 21)
Emily is the youngest Gladiator at just 21. Her explosive speed and CrossFit prowess earned her the name Dynamite. Despite her age, she’s set to make waves in the arena.Nitro – Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Age: 36)
A world gold medallist sprinter, Harry is Nitro—speed and agility personified. Though injured during training, he will still bring high energy and support to the team from the sidelines. - Diamond – Livi Sheldon (Age: 30)
Livi is a champion bodybuilder. She stands 6ft tall. She is known for her strength and resilience. As Diamond, she’s ready to show that being unique is a superpower.Fury – Jodie Ounsley (Age: 23)
Jodie is a fierce competitor. She has a background in rugby, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and world coal carrying. As Fury, she’s here to bring strength, power, and competition to the show. - Steel – Zack George (Age: 34)
CrossFit champion Zack brings his strength and determination to Gladiators as Steel. Ranked among the fittest men in the UK, Zack hopes to inspire the next generation of athletes. - Giant – Jamie Christian Johal (Age: 39)
At 6ft 5in, Jamie is one of the tallest bodybuilders in the world. A former firefighter, Jamie’s larger-than-life presence and personality will make him an unforgettable Gladiator.Fire – Montell Douglas (Age: 38)
A former Olympic sprinter and bobsledder, Montell is known for her speed and tenacity. She’s ready to light up the arena as Fire and prove that dreams can be achieved at any age. - Legend – Matt Morsia (Age: 38)
Matt is a triple jumper. He is also a powerlifter and social media influencer. He brings his competitive edge and charismatic personality as Legend. With a track record of success, Matt is ready to take the spotlight.
New Challenges in Season 2
The second season of Gladiators introduces new and exciting challenges for both the contestants and the Gladiators. From brand-new games to revamped classics, here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:
- Unleash: A high-stakes race where contenders must outpace a mystery Gladiator. With the Gladiator unleashed from a tunnel, the contestants won’t know who’s pursuing them, adding an extra layer of tension.
- Crash Course/Atlaspheres: This event is a fan-favorite from the original series. It features contenders and Gladiators inside giant hamster balls. They crash into each other while vying for victory.
With new games and new Gladiators, the action promises to be fiercer than ever. Tune in for a season of adrenaline-pumping action. Experience unforgettable moments. Enjoy fierce competition as Gladiators returns to BBC One on 18 January!