Gladiators

The show has been something of a surprise, and certainly manages to bring some of the old magic back to the screen. There are problems though, the presenting team simply doesn't work. The Morecambe & Wise act that Brad & Lad seem to be going for completely misses the mark, it simply doesn't fit this show. The other issue is that we have two pantomine villains: Legend and Viper. Out of the two, Legend is more convincing, and at least has an element of cheek to his act, and he does look half-convincing as a competitor, but what is the point of Viper? A couple of changes and the magic might be complete.

A fantastic reboot. Faithful to the original but also modern and engaging for a new audience.

As a massive fan of the original (the sky one not so much) I was dubious but was overwhelmed by how good it was.

Few things to tweak (lose Barney. Nice lad the the personality of a dishcloth, tweak the games and gladiators appearing on them. Got a bit repetitive towards the end, shorten the opening credits) but I throughly enjoyed this. It's like I was 10 all over again.

The low star reviews seem to be people complaining it's not like the original. Of course it isn't. Why would anyone do a like for like remake of a show the was axed 24 years before. Clearly they have not gone into it with a open mind. Enjoy it for what it is. Guilt free, fun, Saturday night family entertainment.

Roll on 2025 for season 2!

The third resurgence of the Gladiators franchise was both a surprise hit in the UK in the early parts of 2024 but also my household. More than just 90s nostalgia it brought back fond memories of foolish American physicality vehicle "Ultimate Tag" and we were instantly invested. Filmed in Sheffield arena and with a slew of new younger gladiators (highlights being the one-who-always-understands-the-assignment Legend and the perennially endearing Fury) the only real flaw is the decision to rely on father-and-son presenting team the Walshes. Bradley has the gift of the gab and Barney is a 2D cut-out of a man. Here's hoping another series brings some changes and breaks up the repetition of repeated games a bit, because I'll always have fond memories of this first one.

The show works better than expected by sticking largely to the original format. Pity no wolf, he was a character! The pretend fights are a bit feeble and I do miss John Anderson's Scottish accent and authorititive manner, you'd not question him, though Mark Clattenberg isn't bad. Some gladiators lack the distinct image and personality of the originals and some don't get the gladiators are meant to be imperious and slightly scary, not friendly and chatty and often intimidated by the contestants.

But who does casting for the BBC? A show about youth and athleticism presented by two people making painful cheesy jokes? Must go down with Question of Sport and Doctor Who as the worst casting in living memory. Do they realise it's not just about picking someone who's popular? They have to fit the show. Someone who's good at quiz shows is totally the wrong image for a highly competitive, combatitive sports / fitness show?

Enjoying every episode of this fantastic throwback with a modern update. Keep it up, BBC! We love the excitement, competitiveness, humour, and the demonstration of the rewards that can be gained from being physically fit! I don't want to pick a favourite, but Giant is immense, and I'd love to see him in movies! Sabre never loses her character, and all the gladiators are excellent. Please DO NOT CANCEL THIS SHOW. Men, women, and competitors at their best! Love it! Too often, modern programming is bogged down by political agendas, but not this time! This show offers top-notch entertainment based on tactical and physical competition. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of the same and finding out who will win! It's a great platform for showcasing potential talent from Ireland and the UK. If you haven't already, give it a shot!