The line-up for Celebrity Gladiators has been announced, featuring Geordie comedian Chris Ramsey, Big Brother presenter AJ Odudu, former Strictly Come Dancing contestant George Clarke, and comedian Sarah Pascoe.
George Clarke, who finished runner-up on the recent series of Strictly Come Dancing, said: "I was missing the BBC packing me into a small tight outfit, so Gladiators felt perfect. Unfortunately, I don’t think I can rely on a partner to carry me through this one. Might have to get training!"
Pascoe, known for shows such as 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Taskmaster, and QI, added: “Celebrity Gladiators is the ideal opportunity for me to live out my childhood dream of humiliating myself on national television.”
Challenges and Hosts
The celebrities will take part in fan-favourite challenges including Duel, Unleash, and Powerball. They will also face the final Eliminator test of speed and strength.
Ramsey said after signing up: “As someone who religiously watched Gladiators as a kid, it’s beyond incredible to be taking part in the show myself. However, a large part of me does wish it could have been while I was in my 20s and not 40… but there you go. I’m looking forward to the challenge, the excitement, the crowd and going head-to-head with the Gladiators and the inevitable months of rehab and physiotherapy that will no doubt follow.”
Big Brother host Odudu added: "I am stepping inside the TV to do the show I wanted to do as a kid, it’s so exciting."
Broadcast and Previous Winners
Gladiators: Celebrity Special will be hosted by father-son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh. A broadcast date is yet to be announced.
Both the celebrity edition and the non-celebrity edition will commence production in Sheffield soon. The regular edition is expected to air in 2027, while the celebrity special is typically broadcast over the festive period.
Last year, fitness coach Joe Wicks and I'm A Celebrity... star Vogue Williams won the celebrity episode, which aired on Christmas Day. They defeated Made in Chelsea star Sam Thompson and boxing champion Nicola Adams. After winning, Joe said: "Even though I had a bit of a breather, I still found that travelator hard. It's much harder doing it in real life than watching it on TV. I'm really chuffed that I won but I have to say Sam has been an amazing partner."
