The wait is over, Gladiators fans! Every single Gladiator from the electrifying 2023 reboot, along with hosts Bradley and Barney Walsh, is officially returning for Series 2. Filming kicks off this August at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, with the series slated to hit BBC One and BBC iPlayer in early 2025.
The Returning Gladiators: A Complete Roster
Here’s the powerhouse lineup ready to rumble once more:
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Giant (Jamie Christian Johal): Towering strength and a firefighter background make Giant a force to be reckoned with.
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Bionic (Matty Campbell): Expect a mind-blowing display of strength and athleticism from this near-superhuman competitor.
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Fury (Jodie Ounsley): The first deaf Gladiator, Fury is back to inspire with her contagious energy and raw power.
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Comet (Ella-Mae Rayner): Returning after an injury in Series 1, Comet’s comeback is a testament to her incredible determination.
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Electro (Jade Packer): Prepare for lightning-fast action as Electro returns, bringing her speed and agility back to the arena.
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Phantom (Toby Olubi): Elusive and enigmatic as ever, Phantom is ready to strike from the shadows once again.
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Fire (Montell Douglas): With her track and field background, Fire brings explosive energy and blazing speed to the competition.
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Dynamite (Emily Steel): Raw power and pure athleticism make Dynamite a force to be reckoned with in Series 2.
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Viper (Quang Luong): Agile, quick, and ready to strike, Viper returns to showcase his impressive skills and cunning tactics.
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Apollo (Alex Gray): A true champion inside and outside the arena, Apollo’s return is sure to thrill fans.
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Athena (Karenjeet Kaur Bains): Strength, skill, and laser focus—Athena brings it all back to the arena for another season.
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Diamond (Livi Sheldon): Diamond returns, sparkling and ready to dazzle with her resilience and determination.
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Legend (Matt Morsia): The fitness guru is back to live up to his legendary name and prove his dominance.
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Sabre (Sheli McCoy): Sharp as a tack and ready for battle, Sabre’s return is eagerly awaited by fans.
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Steel (Zack George): An absolute wall of steel, his strength, determination, and unwavering endurance are undeniable.
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Nitro (Harry Aikines Aryeetey): Prepare for explosive speed and adrenaline-pumping action as Nitro returns to the arena.
New Faces and Format Tweaks
Two new Gladiators will join the fray in Series 2, adding another level of excitement and unpredictability to the competition. While their identities remain under wraps, their addition suggests that we might see some shifts in team dynamics and rivalries.
Furthermore, producers have hinted at “amazing surprises,” leading to speculation about potential format changes and new challenges. Might we see modified versions of classic events? Or perhaps entirely new obstacles designed to push the Gladiators to their limits? While official details are still scarce, the prospect of fresh twists adds to the anticipation surrounding Series 2.
Comet’s Inspiring Return
Comet’s comeback after her injury in Series 1 is a particularly compelling storyline. Her resilience and dedication are truly inspiring, and her return will undoubtedly be a highlight of the season. It will be interesting to see how she performs after her recovery, and what adjustments, if any, she makes to her strategy.
Conclusion: Get Ready for Round 2!
With all sixteen original Gladiators, two exciting new additions, the return of hosts Bradley and Barney Walsh, and the promise of surprises, Series 2 is shaping up to be a must-watch. Tune in to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in early 2025 to witness the action unfold! While we await more details about format changes and new gladiators, the confirmed return of the entire original lineup guarantees a thrilling continuation of the legendary competition.