Chris Ramsey has voiced concerns about requiring rehab after signing up for the BBC's Gladiators: Celebrity Special. The comedian and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant will compete alongside AJ Odudu, George Clarke and Sara Pascoe in events such as Duel, Unleash and Powerball, culminating in the Eliminator.
Ramsey jokes about age and rehab
Turning 40 in August, Ramsey said: "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." He added: "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."
Clarke, Odudu and Pascoe also taking part
George Clarke, a former Strictly finalist, joked about missing being "packed into a small tight outfit" by the BBC. "Unfortunately, I don't think I can rely on a partner to carry me through this one," he said. "Might have to get training!"
TV presenter AJ Odudu described her involvement as "so exciting," having dreamed of appearing on the show as a child. Actress Sara Pascoe quipped: "Celebrity Gladiators is the ideal opportunity for me to live out my childhood dream of humiliating myself on national television."
Show history and broadcast
The original Gladiators was a hit for ITV in the 1990s, hosted by Ulrika Jonsson. It was revived in 2024 with hosts Bradley and Barney Walsh. Three series have aired, and a fourth is scheduled for 2027. Gladiators: Celebrity Special will air on BBC One later this year.
