Tom Stoltman, the three-time World's Strongest Man champion, has been announced as the latest contestant to join the cast of the hit BBC show Gladiators. The 32-year-old from Invergordon in the Scottish Highlands will appear in the fourth series, with filming set to begin next month in Sheffield.
Stoltman's Gladiator Debut
While Stoltman's Gladiator name has not yet been revealed, the fourth series of the primetime show is scheduled to air on BBC One in 2027. Speaking about his new role, Stoltman said: "This is a dream opportunity and I'm incredibly proud to become a Gladiator. I've spent my life pushing myself to see what I can achieve and joining this incredible show is the next challenge."
He added: "I'm excited to bring my strength, determination and personality to the arena but, most importantly, I want people watching to feel inspired to believe in themselves and take on their own challenges."
Stoltman's Strongman Career
Standing at 6ft 8in, Stoltman made history in 2021 as the first Scot to win the World's Strongest Man title. He successfully defended his crown in 2022 before winning the competition for a third time in 2024. Currently, he holds the title of Britain's Strongest Man after winning it for a fourth time in February 2026, defeating Adam Bishop and Paddy Haynes.
However, a hand injury prevented him from competing for the world title in 2026, and he was eliminated during the qualifying rounds.
New Series and Celebrity Special
In addition to the classic format returning next year, the BBC has also announced an all-new Gladiators Celebrity Special, hosted by Bradley and Barney Walsh. Kalpna Patel-Knight, head of entertainment at the BBC, said: "With a brand-new series confirmed and another Celebrity Special on the way, audiences can look forward to even more colossal clashes, even more edge-of-your-seat excitement and plenty of opportunities to raise those foam fingers high once again."
Controversy Over Giant's Departure
Stoltman's addition comes amid controversy surrounding the departure of Gladiator Jamie 'Giant' Biggs. Biggs took to Instagram to tell fans he would not be returning for series four, stating "this wasn't a decision I made to step away" and that he "was faced with a choice that didn't align with my values."
He later told The Sun that the issue was his girlfriend Taylor Ryan's OnlyFans career, claiming he was given an ultimatum to either end the relationship or forfeit his role on Gladiators. "I had to choose between dating Taylor and keeping my job," he said. "I was shocked and very saddened about their choice to sack me."
A Gladiators spokesperson said at the time: "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."
