The BBC's Gladiators reboot is set for a major shake-up, with bodybuilder Ahmad Rabus reportedly joining the cast under the iconic name 'The Emperor'. According to The Sun, the 98k-follower fitness influencer is being lined up as a direct replacement for fan-favourite Giant, who was axed earlier this year.
Cast upheaval: Who left and who's in?
Recent months have seen a wave of departures from the show. Giant (Jamie Bigg) claimed he was fired after revealing plans to go public with his former girlfriend, an OnlyFans creator. Bionic (Matty Campbell) and Athena (Karanjeet Kaur Bains) both suffered injuries during filming, though Athena has since insisted she's 'fitter than ever' and would address her absence soon. Cyclone (Lystus Ebosele) also released a statement hinting at behind-the-scenes issues that made staying impossible.
To fill the void, the BBC has reportedly secured Ahmad Rabus, a married father of one who was crowned Mr Universe in Italy in 2015. His social media is a testament to his fitness regime and chiselled physique, making him a natural fit for the arena.
'The Emperor' to bring big personality
A source told The Sun: 'Giant was one of the most popular Gladiators so bosses needed a big personality to take his place. They absolutely love Ahmad and think his show name The Emperor is iconic and will make a big impression with viewers. He is strong-minded and brilliant at getting into character.'
Rabus also offers regular coaching calls, indicating a commitment to fitness beyond the show.
Official addition: Tom Stoltman
Meanwhile, the BBC has officially announced that World's Strongest Man winner Tom Stoltman will join the cast, though his Gladiator name and costume are yet to be revealed. Stoltman expressed his excitement in a statement: '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. 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.'
Celebrity Gladiators drama
Over on Celebrity Gladiators, comedian Chris Ramsey reportedly had to withdraw due to injury, with Traitors winner Harry Clark stepping in at the last minute. An insider said: 'The audience where the show was being filmed at Sheffield Arena were enthralled by the turn of events and were thrilled when it was announced he was stepping in.'
Additionally, former rugby star Joe Marler is reportedly in talks to appear as a guest Gladiator, a first for the reboot.
With filming already wrapped at Sheffield's Utilita Arena, fans can expect the fourth season to deliver a fresh lineup of formidable competitors. The BBC has not yet commented on the reports.
