The BBC was reportedly warned about Gladiators star Giant's steroid use months before the show's reboot, but decided to keep him on the programme. Giant, 37, whose real name is Jamie Christian-Johal, allegedly admitted to taking steroids in YouTube videos that resurfaced after he joined the line-up.
A whistleblower, a former bodybuilder, claims he told BBC producers eight months ago about Giant's steroid use before his selection. He said bosses 'brushed off' his allegations, adding to The Sun: 'I was surprised they were so cavalier about something so serious.' He said he was motivated to ensure children did not treat Giant as a role model.
Anabolic steroids are class C drugs, prescription-only but available illegally online. Giant last week said he has been off performance-enhancing drugs for over a year, stating: 'I have always been open and transparent about my use of steroids whilst I was a professional bodybuilder.' He added that he does not advocate their use.
A BBC spokesperson said: 'The Gladiators production team were robust with their no drugs policy and drug testing was part of the process which all Gladiators agreed to and complied with. The results showed that they were not taking performance enhancing drugs.'
An insider called the situation a 'nightmare' for the BBC, as the reboot attracted 6.4 million viewers. The source told The Sun: 'This is a nightmare for the BBC, it's a family show and they've somehow not spotted this material from its biggest star.'
