Bradley Walsh and his son Barney to host BBC’s revival of Gladiators
Bradley Walsh and his son Barney have been announced as the new hosts of sports entertainment show Gladiators.
The 11-part series made by Hungry Bear Media and MGM Alternative UK will see a new generation of superhuman Gladiators compete against a brave set of contenders in the ultimate test of speed and strength. They will take part in a series of brand new games alongside classic challenges including fan-favourites DUEL, HANG TOUGH and THE ELIMINATOR.
Gladiators was originally broadcast from 1992 to 2000 and is set to be revived on the BBC with an 11-episode series being filmed this year.
The BBC said the show “has always been a huge part of the Walsh family” as Bradley’s wife Donna was head choreographer for the Gladiator cheerleaders and Bradley appeared in the Celebrities vs Jockeys special in 1997.
Bradley, who presents hit ITV quiz show The Chase, said: “Wow! I can’t believe that I’ve been asked to be part of this iconic show.
“I used to sit backstage, or in the audience, every week watching my wife be part of this juggernaut and now I get to co-host a new version of Gladiators!!! Saturday night family entertainment at its best… Are you ready?!”
Barney, who also stars alongside his father in ITV comedy travel series Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad, said: “Gladiators has been a massive part of our family and it’s an honour to be asked to co-host this iconic show.
“I’m so excited for everyone to see the spectacle, elite athletes and fantastic family entertainment that is Gladiators.”
Gladiators did return to TV screens on Sky between 2008 and 2009, and at its peak in the 1990s drew huge audiences to the Saturday evening ITV slot.
The competition will kick off at the Utilita Arena Sheffield around June 2023.