Gladiators star quits BBC series but claims shock exit ‘wasn’t his decision’

The bodybuilder and TV personality – real name Jamie Bigg – has appeared in the past three seasons of the reboot, first joining in January 2024.

Now, in a new Instagram post from Friday, he announced that he was stepping back from the show, calling the role the ‘greatest honour of his life’.

Alluding to difficulties behind the scenes, he continued: ‘Stepping into that arena, hearing the crowd, representing strength, resilience and being a role model… that’s something I’ll carry with me forever.

‘What I do want to make clear is this wasn’t a decision I made to step away.

I was faced with a choice that didn’t align with my values.

‘And if you know me, you know this… I stand by my people and I stand by what I believe in.

That’s what being a role model means to me.’
He then concluded with a final reflection, extending his gratitude to all those who had supported him.

‘I’m proud of everything I gave to the show and grateful for every single person who supported me along the way.

This isn’t the end.

It’s just the beginning.

Stay strong.

Stand tall,’ the former firefighter wrote.

A Gladiators spokesperson said: ‘After three formidable series, Giant is leaving Gladiators.

We’d like to thank him for everything he has contributed to the show and wish him well for the future.’
Tom Wilson aka The Hammer declared: “Big G man!

The duel king’ and Zac George, Steel the Gladiator, wrote: ‘Always the biggest’.

Broadcaster Jake Humphrey said: ‘You were brilliant mate.

And always the right decision to prioritise your values.’
Fellow bodybuilder James Crosserly added: ‘Always the Giant’.

‘My wee boy is gonna be devastated.

You have been amazing!

Thank you for inspiring a little boy,’ Lisa Macdonald wrote.

There’s no word yet on whether he will join the Gladiators live tour launching this autumn.

Gladiators wrapped its latest season at the end of March, with Josh McDonald and Emily Bell ultimately battling their way to victory.

A new season will likely return in early 2027.

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