Gladiators star quits after three years as he says 'wasn't my decision'
The BBC star issued a statement announcing his exit online.
Gladiators star Giant has announced he has stepped down from the BBC show. Giant – real name Jamie Biggs – told his fans this wasn't a decision he made, but was forced to quit after being faced with a choice that "didn't align with my values". Taking to Instagram, Jamie shared a gallery of snaps taken from his time on the show, telling fans in the caption that he won't be returning for season four.
He wrote: "To my Gladiator family. I want to tell you all that I won’t be coming back for season 4 of the TV show. Being a Gladiator has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Stepping into that arena, hearing the crowd, representing strength, resilience and being a role model… that’s something I’ll carry with me forever. What I do want to make clear is this wasn’t a decision I made to step away."
Read more: BBC Gladiators icon dies after tragic cancer news as devastated fans pay tribute
Read more: Gladiators presenter Barney Walsh banned from driving for six months
The bodybuilder continued: "I was faced with a choice that didn’t align with my values. And if you know me, you know this… I stand by my people and I stand by what I believe in. That’s what being a role model means to me.
"I’m proud of everything I gave to the show and grateful for every single person who supported me along the way."
He added: "This isn’t the end. It’s just the beginning. Stay strong. Stand tall."
Fans immediately flooded the comments section, with many clearly gutted by the news.
One wrote: "So sad to hear this but you have got to stick to your values and morals you have to do what makes you happy. I will definitely miss you on Gladiators as you are my favourite. You have inspired me to become a better version of myself."
Another said: "It won't be the same without, but I have so much respect for you for sticking to your values. That is definitely the sign of a true role model. I know you'll be amazing at whatever you take on next."
TV presenter Jake Humphrey added: "You were brilliant mate. And always the right decision to prioritise your values."
A Gladiators spokesperson said: "After three formidable series, Giant is leaving Gladiators. We’d like to thank him for everything he has contributed to the show and wish him well for the future."
Jamie, from Ilkeston, Derbyshire, joined the cast of Gladiators when the series was rebooted in 2024. The original series ran from 1992 to 2000.
