Two Gladiators stars, Bionic and Athena, have reportedly exited the BBC series ahead of season four, while former rugby player and Celebrity Traitors star Joe Marler is primed to join the show in a guest capacity, according to a source speaking to The Sun.
Injuries Force Bionic and Athena Out
Bionic, whose real name is Matty Campbell, and Athena, real name Karenjeet Kaur Bains, both suffered injuries during the filming of the previous season. A source told The Sun: 'They won't film this year for the show but could be back for the tour, depending on how they recover from their injuries.' Bionic was seen in visible pain during the Hang Tough challenge and required medical attention after dropping onto the crash mat. Athena endured a severe setback during season three filming, suffering a complete ACL tear, meniscus tear, LCL and MCL tears, and a bone fracture. She underwent surgery approximately a year ago and has been documenting her recovery on social media.
Joe Marler Reportedly Set to Join
As two Gladiators exit, Joe Marler, known for his appearance on Celebrity Traitors, is reportedly poised to join the series as a guest Gladiator. An insider told The Sun: 'It goes without saying he's got the size, strength and muscle power to cut it as a Gladiator, but he's also got the cheeky personality to match. Viewers of the original series and the BBC's reboot love their Gladiators to come with a little sass, and Joe will easily put on a performance in every sense of the word.' This would mark the first time a guest Gladiator has appeared on the reboot, which launched in 2024.
Previous Cast Changes
The reported exits follow the earlier departure of fan-favourite Giant, who was axed from the series in April. Giant, real name Jamie Bigg, claimed his dismissal was due to his then-girlfriend being an OnlyFans creator. World's Strongest Man winner Tom Stoltman was announced as his replacement. Stoltman expressed his excitement about the casting, calling it a 'dream opportunity' and an 'incredible 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.' His Gladiator name and costume have yet to be revealed. Former star Giant passed on well wishes, calling Stoltman 'a fantastic person' and saying 'he'll absolutely smash it on the show.'
Metro has reached out to the BBC and Joe Marler's representatives for comment.
