sports
January 10, 2026
‘Bring me a gigantic Gladiator who can cradle me like a baby!’: behind the scenes of the most joyous show on TV
When it first returned to our screens, people said Gladiators was a tired format. They had clearly forgotten the joy of watching half-clad hulks with silly names go to battle, says superfan Helen Pidd as she heads backstage
TL;DR
- The 2024 revival of Gladiators has been a significant success, attracting a large audience across different age groups.
- The show combines nostalgic elements for viewers who watched in the 90s with new content that appeals to younger generations.
- Gladiators promotes family viewing, offering a shared entertainment experience that can bridge generational divides.
- The modern Gladiators are subject to drug testing and are careful to maintain a positive public image, unlike some past entertainment figures.
- The show features a diverse cast of Gladiators, aiming to have a character that resonates with everyone in the audience.
- Physical challenges are intense, with safety measures in place to prevent serious injuries to both contenders and Gladiators.
- The Gladiators themselves lead relatively disciplined lives focused on fitness and recovery to perform at their best.
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