The BBC has announced that former England rugby international Joe Marler will be the first celebrity Gladiator on the hit show Gladiators, taking the name Mauler in the arena. Fans have responded with enthusiasm, calling the casting "perfect" and "epic".
Joe, who appeared on Celebrity Traitors last year, will make his Gladiators debut when the series returns next year. He will face the Contenders in special appearances described as "packed with power, personality and plenty of surprises".
Fan reactions
Viewers took to social media to share their excitement. One Instagram user wrote: "This is epic, great signing." Another commented: "Joe Marler swapping the rugby pitch for the arena. We're here for it." A third joked: "Marler the Mauler," while another teased: "Chaos unfolding."
One fan said: "Congratulations on becoming a Gladiator. Looking forward to seeing what you can do and give the Contenders a total fright - go give them hell." Others called the name "perfect" and the choice the "best choice ever". One described it as "absolutely golden", while another said it was "perfect casting".
Joining the lineup
Joe will join familiar Gladiator faces including Apollo, Comet and Diamond in the forthcoming series. The show released a first-look image of his suit hanging alongside the outfits of his new teammates.
In a clip shared on Instagram, Joe walks into the Gladiators' dressing room, turns to the camera and says: "Mauler will see you now." Behind him, the names and outfits of other Gladiators such as Steel and Legend are visible, with 'Mauler' between them and a red and blue vest hanging beneath.
Show history
Gladiators was a big hit in the 90s, hosted by Ulrika Jonsson, and returned in 2024 with Bradley and Barney Walsh as hosts. Three series have aired so far, with a fourth confirmed for next year. Gladiators returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2027.
