Gladiators (1992 British TV series)
- This is about the TV show. For historical Roman murderers/fighters see gladiator. For the other uses, see The Gladiators.
| Gladiators | |
|---|---|
 Gladiators Logo, 1992-2000 | |
| Country of origin | United Kingdom |
| No. of series | 8 Domestic 2 International |
| Production | |
| Running time | 1 Hour
|
| Original release | |
| Network | ITV now ITV1 |
| Release | 10 October 1992 – 1 January 2000 |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
| Release | Produced By London Weekend Television LWT |
Gladiators was a game show produced by LWT for ITV in the United Kingdom from 10 October 1992 to 1 January 2000, (though there was another series filmed in South Africa against the South African Gladiators in 2000 but this was not for UK *broadcast) an adaptation of the United States game show American Gladiators, which had developed a cult following in the UK through its night-time TV showings, as well as an Australian spin-off. Repeats of Gladiators series are shown on Challenge, a satellite and cable channel.
The show pitted contestants in a variety of physical events against the 'Gladiators', who would attempt to prevent them from achieving maximum points on a variety of games.
After this, the two contestants would race each other on The Eliminator, a course containing climbing, balancing, cargo nets, etc. The contender with the most points received a headstart of .5 or.1/2 seconds per additional point.
The show was originally presented by John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonsson. John Fashanu was replaced by Jeremy Guscott in 1997 before returning for the final mini series in 1999.
The referee was John Anderson and the time keepers over the shows run were Andrew Norgate, Derek Redmond and Eugene Gilkes. John Sachs commentated for the show from the beginning to the end and the Gladiators were cheered on by a group of cheerleaders, Known as G-Force.
There was also an Australian version of the show in the mid-1990s, hosted by Mike Hammond and Kimberley Joseph, refereed by Mike Whitney, and featuring voiceovers from Tony Schibecci. See Gladiators Australia for more information.
Apart from the off-series live events, all the Gladiators tapings took place at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham, England.
For more information on the events see Gladiators events.
Gladiators Series and Shows
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Season One: 1992
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonsson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders (24 Contenders)
Female Contenders
- Nicloa Bawden
- Vivene Rattigan
- Karen Beaumont
- Jenny La Grande
- Clare Egerton
- Rosie Phelps
- Catherine Haughey
- Moya Lidden
- Chrissie Mullings
- Vanda Fairchild
- Lisa Morgan
- Jane Morris
Male Contenders
- Weininger Irwin
- Jeremy Nelson
- Tracy Harris
- Ludwig Ramsey
- Roger Allen
- Simon Goddard
- Derek Collitt
- Chris Saunders
- Kym Dalton
- Jonathan Riley
- Tony Bayford
- Dean Jackson
Gladiator Team (12 Gladiators):
Female Gladiators:
- Flame
- Lightning
- Jet
- Panther
- Phoenix
- Scorpio
Male Gladiators:
- Cobra
- Hawk
- Saracen
- Shadow
- Warrior
- Wolf
The Events (6 Events + Eliminator):
- Atlaspheres
- Danger Zone
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Hang Tough
- Swingshot
- The Wall
The first series began in late October 1992 airing 9 episodes. The original format of the series was the top 4 contenders in the 6 qualifying heats will go through to the semi-finals. The series only had 6 events to begin with before having to add new events in the later series.
Season 1 Champions: Vanda Fairchild and Weininger Irwin
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Wembley Live Shows: 1993
Venue: Wembley Arena, London, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Gladiator team (15 Gladiators):
Female Gladiators:
- Flame
- Lightning
- Jet
- Panther
- Phoenix
- Scorpio
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators:
- Bullit
- Cobra
- Hawk
- Saracen
- Shadow
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
The Events (6 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Breakthrough & Conquor
- Eliminator
- Joust
- Suspension Bridge
- The Wall
- Tilt
- First appearances of: Bullit, Trojan and Zodiac
- Last appearances of: Bullit, Flame, Hawk and Phoenix
The first set of Wembley live shows saw the roadtesting of both new Gladiators and new events. Some of the contenders from the live shows made it onto the televised shows. Tilt, Suspension Bridge and Joust were all road tested and carried forward onto the next series (albeit with slight modifications).
One of the road tested events, Breakthrough and Conquer, never made it onto the televised series. In this two part event, the contender would first have to pass a Gladiator whilst carrying a rugby style ball. The Gladiator would try to tackle the contender. 5 points were awarded for evading the Gladiator and crossing the end line. The second part was a 30 second "sumo style" but between the contender and a different Gladiator in which the contender had 30 seconds to remove the Gladiator from a circled area. 5 points were awarded for successfully doing this. Elements of this game formed the basis for future events Powerball and Whiplash.
Atlaspheres, The Wall and The Eliminator were also played.
Highlights from these shows were shown in a preview episode to the 1993 series. It was also rumoured that an altercation between Hawk and producer Nigel Lythgoe led to his sacking.
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Season 2: 1993
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders (33 Contenders)
Female Contenders
- Pauline Oliver
- Katie Tanner
- Rhian Pritchard
- Rowan Duxbury
- Mandy Gornicki
- Paula Bisley
- Sophie Cheston
- Helen Williams
- Jacqui Thompson
- Lisa Thompson
- Jean Klenk - Substitute for Lisa Thompson
- Gail Rickett
- Tracy Johnson
- Susan Serman
- Syrlene Clarke
- Georgina Berger
- Vicki McCann
Male Contenders
- Richard Bury
- Phil Norman
- Gary Towers
- Glen Webb
- Stephen Robinson
- Roddie McKay
- Dean Hart
- Jon Morgan
- Brian Ward
- Alan Bates
- Rik Keiseweter
- Gary Dodds
- Steve Quick
- Roland Hill
- Tim Anstiss
- Chris Yeomans
Gladiators Team (14 Gladiators)
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Scorpio
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Saracen
- Shadow
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
First Appearance Of: Falcon, Hunter and Nightshade
Last Appearance Of: N/A
The Events (12 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Danger Zone
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet NEW
- Hang Tough
- Joust NEW
- Powerball NEW
- Skytrak NEW
- Suspension Bridge New
- Swingshot
- The Wall
Tilt New
This series saw a big change to the 1992 series in that there were new events, new Gladiators and an extended run of shows into what became the norm of 8 heats, 4 quarter finals, 2 semi finals and the grand final. This series also had a celebrity special in which presenter John Fashanu took part and ultimately won.
The Eliminator course was also modified, comprising of two high and low hurdles, a rope climb, the hand ladder/ hand bike, rolling beams, an extended cargo net, zip line, balance beam and the travelator.
Season 2 Champions: Jean Klenk and Phil Norman
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Wembley Live Shows: 1994
Venue: Wembley Arena, London, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Gladiators Team: 14 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Scorpio
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Saracen
- Shadow
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
The Events (6 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Cannonball Run AKA Hit & Run
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Hang Tough
- Powerball
- The Wall
Although no new Gladiators were roadtested in these competitions, there was one new event tried out, Cannonball run, which went on to appear in the televised shows albeit under the name Hit & Run. Some of the contenders from these shows went on to be in the televised shows.
Atlaspheres, The Wall, Powerball, Hang Tough, Duel and The Eliminator were also played. Cobra had to be sidelined during the shows due to an ankle injury he picked up after an event.
Season 3: 1994
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Derek Redmond
Contenders (33 Contenders)
Female Contenders
- Claire Hillman'
- Erica Rogerson'
- Rachel Culwick'
- Jo Harrington'
- Jo Neath (Reserve for Rachel Culwick)'
- Eunice Huthart'
- Lorraine Staley'
- Jo Banton'
- Clancy Connor'
- Kerryna Sampey'
- Jayne Ludden'
- Katie Budd'
- Melissa Spackman'
- Nikki Wyatt'
- Sue Smith'
- Lisa Gibbs'
- Rowan Duxbury'
Male Contenders'
- Ian Simpson'
- Paul Beswick'
- Phil Campbell'
- Ken George'
- Andy Riddoch'
- Lee Blackledge'
- Sam Codjoe'
- Rick Brown'
- Mark Skipper'
- Neil Dorrell'
- Dean Pollen'
- Gladstone Mackenzie'
- Alex Lee'
- Paul Field'
- Richard Barnett'
- Matt Beeke'
Gladiators Team (14 Gladiators)
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Scorpio
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Saracen
- Shadow
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
The Events (16 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Danger Zone
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Hit & Run NEW
- Joust
- Pole-Axe NEW
- Powerball
- 'Pursuit NEW
- Pyramid NEW
- Skytrak
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
- Tilt
This series has been thought of as the best series by many fans due to the impressive calibre of contenders. It was this and the 1995 series that attracted the most viewers.
One of the more notable aspects of this series was the reduction of six events per show to just five. This was mainly due to time constraints in the NIA. A celebrity and Armed forces special formed part of this series.
Season 3 Champions: Eunice Huthart and Paul Field
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International Gladiators 1: 1994
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Mike Adamle
Event Commontators: John Sachs and Mike Adamle
Referees: John Anderson and Larry Thompson
Time Keeper: Derek Redmond
Contenders; 16 Contenders
Female Contenders Eunice Huthart: UK Jean Klenk: UK Adrienne Sullivan: USA Kym Tyler: USA PIrjo Litilia: Finland Riikka Hartikainen: Finland Olga Duodnik: Russia Lena Latcenciko: Russia
Male Contenders
- Phil Norman: UK
- Paul Field: UK
- Wesley berry: USA
- Kyler Storm: USA
- Tommi Vuoristo: Finland
- Stass Shastak: Russia
- Andre Acoulov: Russia
Gladiators Team: 24 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
UK
- Falcon:
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Scorpio
- Zodiac
USA
- Ice
- Jazz
- Sky
Finland
- Flash
Male Gladiators
UK
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Saracen
- Shadow
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
USA
- Hawk
- Nitro
- Sabre
Finland
- Terminator
Russia
- Dynamite
- Spartak
The Events (16 Events + Eliminator)
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Hit & Run
- Joust
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Pursuit
- Pyramid
- Skytrak
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
The first International Series was held in the Summer of 1994. 4 Countries were invlolved and the series was a huge success all over the world.
International Gladiators 1 Champions: Eunice Huthart (UK and Wesley Berry (USA)
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Sheffield Live Shows: 1995
Venue: Sheffield Arena, Sheffield, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Gladiators Team: 16 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Blaze
- Falcon
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Vogue
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Raider
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
- First appearances of: Blaze, Raider, Rhino & Vogue
- Last appearances of: Blaze
The Events (6 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Joust
- Powerball
- Pyramid
Former women's domestic and international champion Eunice Huthart became Gladiator Blaze for this series of live events. However she retired from being a Gladiator before the televised series began filming to represent the UK as a contender in the first Ashes series.
One of the new events to be introduced in the 1995 televised series, Pendulum, was due to be premiered in the Sheffield live shows. However, the safety net used was not modified for the arena and the game could not be played. For the first few shows the pendulum could be seen stored in the ceiling before it was later taken down. Instead Joust was played, in a rather strange move as the event was hardly played during the televised series.
The other events to be played were Atlaspheres, Pyramid, Powerball, Gauntlet and Duel. These shows were notable in that it was the only time that Panther played Pyramid and the only time that Zodiac and Vogue played Joust.
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Season 4: 1995
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders: 33 Contenders
Female Contenders
- Melanie Blewitt
- Tracey Fulthorpe
- Janet Allen
- Diane Thomas
- Kathy O'Dell
- Rachel Whiteside
- Linda Dent
- Jackie Kinsella
- Mel Cambridge
- Mandy Beacher
- Linda Moore
- Sonia Walker
- Cheryl Quinn
- Julie Gray
- Jenny Waite
- Kay Kershaw
Male Contenders
- Jeff Kenyon
- Brian Richardson
- Phil Ennis
- David O'Hallahan
- Glenn Williams
- Chris Rawlinson
- Regan Pilkington
- Michael Bates
- Mike Reynaud (Replacement For Michael Bates)
- John Tyson
- Mark Everitt
- Sean Clay
- Lawrence Jean-Baptiste
- Murray Stephen
- Bill Cumberland
- Donald Williams
- Steph Drury-Morris
Gladiators Team: 16 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Amazon
- Falcon
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Vogue
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Raider
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
- First appearances of: Amazon
- Last appearances of: n/a
The Events (18 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Danger Zone
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Hit & Run
- Joust
- Pendulum NEW
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Pursuit
- Pyramid
- Skytrak
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
- Tilt
- Whiplash New
This is seen by many fans as the pinicle of the show. The viewing figures were at their peak and most fans agree that the events and Gladiators were at their strongest this year. This season saw the last viewings of Favourite events Joust and Tilt which were axed due to safety reasons.
Season 4 Champions: Janet Allen and Mark Everett
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The Ashes 1: 1995
Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, Australia
Presenters: John Fashanu and Kimberly Joseph
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referees: John Anderson and Mike Whitney
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders: 8 Contenders
Female Contenders
- Kerryn Sampey: UK
- Eunice Huthart: UK
- Kerry Warman: Australia
- Nellie Baker: Australia
Male Contenders
- Matt Beeke: UK
- Phil Campbell: UK
- Andrew Halliday: Australia
- David Wallis: Australia
Gladiators Team: 19 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
UK
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Vogue
Australia
- Blade
- Chetta
- Delta
- Flame
- Fury
- Storm
Male Gladiators
UK
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Warrior
- Wolf
Australia
- Condor
- Hammer
- Taipan
- Tower
- Vulcan
The Events:
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Powerball
- Pyramid
- Suspension Br
idge - The Wall
This was the First Ashes series. The UK team travelled down to Australia to battle it out on Aussie soil. It was seen as a great move as it was a chance to see how another country handled the show.
Ashes 1 Champions: Kerryn Sampey (UK) and Andrew Halliday (Australia)
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International Gladiators 2: 1995
See International Gladiators 2
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: Ulrika Jonnson, Mike Adamle, and Kimberly Joseph br />
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referees: John Anderson, Larry Thompson and John Forsythe
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
- First appearances of: n/a
- Last appearances of: Raider
The Events: 12 Events + Eliminator
- Atlaspheres
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Pendulum
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Pyramid
- Skytrak
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
This second International Series was the biggest ever Gladiators tournament. Over 60 competitors from all over the world came to Birmingham to compete for the title. However this second International tournament didnt attract as much acclaim as the first one!
International Gladiators 2 Champions: Peggy Odita (USA) and Pat Czismazia (USA) ___________________________________________________________________________________
Wembley Live Shows: 1996
Venue: Wembley Arena, London, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Gladiator team:
Gladiators Team: 17 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Amazon
- Falcon
- Jet
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Rebel
- Rio
- Vogue
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Ace
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Saracen
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
- First appearances of: Ace, Rebel & Rio
- Last appearances of: Amazon & Jet
The Events: 6 Events + Eliminator
- Atlaspheres
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Powerball
- Sumo Ball
The last set of live shows to be staged some quite a few injuries, particularly for the women's Gladiator team, resulting in both Amazon and Jet having to leave Gladiators due to injuries on the Pyramid event. This also resulted in the Pyramid event being axed for the 1996 series.
One new event was road tested, Sumo Ball, which went on to appear in the 1996 series.
The other events played were Atlaspheres, Powerball, Gauntlet, Hang Tough and The Eliminator.
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Season 5: 1996
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders: 32 Contenders
Female Contenders: North
- Onyema Amadi
- Joanne Henders
- Sarah Damm
- Hannah Owen
- Michelle Kimberley
- Meleri Davies
- Jude Shenton
- Karen Scholes
Female Contenders: South
- Rachel Browse
- Andreya Wharry
- Sylvina Quamina
- Yvette Rowley
- Rebecca Riggs
- Sarah Perrett
- Celia Duffield
- Ingrid Reynolds
Male Contenders: North
- Andrew Farrell
- Adrean Parrock
- Steve Maughan
- Robbie Kinnaird
- Jonny Alcock
- Andrew Morley
- Buster Reeves
- Glenn Wilkinson
Male Contenders: South
- Mark Mottram
- Andrew Lewis
- Patrick Dale
- Gavin Rodenhurst
- Paul Dunkley
- Freddie McGovern
- Colin Treasure
- Emmil Watson
Gladiators Team: 17 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- laser
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Panther
- Rebel
- Rio
- Vogue
- Zodiac
Male Gladiators
- Ace
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Trojan
- Warrior
- Wolf
- First appearances of: Laser
- Last appearances of: Nightshade, Panther, Trojan & Zodiac
The Events (19 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Danger Zone
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Hit & Run
- Pendulum
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Pursuit
- Pyramid
- Skytrak
- Sumo Ball NEW
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
- Whiplash
During training for this series, both Gladiator Zodiac and contender Nikki Claxton suffered bad injuries on the Pole-Axe event, leading to it being axed for this series. Pyramid had also been axed due to career ending injuries to Jet and Amazon. Tilt was also axed due to the injury to Nightshade the year before and Joust was also axed, although the reason for this was never fully explained.
Zodiac's injury meant that she had to sit out the majority of this series. In fact, the only event she competed in was Danger Zone, in its two appearances. Nightshade also made few appearances this season due to illness and injury including suffering a strained neck on Skytrak (she had suffered a neck injury the previous year on Tilt). Both Zodiac and Nightshade left after this series. Panther also made a reduced number of appearances in this series. Because of this, a last minute addition to the team was made, Laser, although because of the nature of her arrival, she never appeared in any of the souvenir programmes.
One new event, Sumo Ball, which was road tested in the Wembley Live shows, appeared. The Eliminator also had a slight adaptation in which a maze of elastic wires dubbed Spaghetti Junction, was added. This proved unpopular with viewers and was dropped after this series.
There was a slight format change to this series, in which the contenders were split into two teams, North and South, depending on where they came from. The Northern team was coached by Eunice Huthart and the southern team by 1993 male champion Phil Norman. The series saw the format of four Northern heats, Two Northern Semi finals, a Northern final, four Southern heats, two Southern semi finals, a Southern final and a Grand Final.
Season 5 Champions: Andreya Wharry (South) and Mark Mottram (South)
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The Ashes 2: 1996
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: Mike Hammond and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson and John Forsythe
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders: 8 Contenders
Female Contenders UK
- Sarah Damm
- Michelle Kimberley (Replacement For Sarah Damm)
- Hannah Owen
- Celia Duffield (Replacement For Hannah Owen)
Australia
- Marissa Heuttner
- Catherine Arlove
(9 Gladiators)
Male Contenders UK
- Emmil Watson
- Mark Everitt
Australia
- Paul Stubbs
- Paul Reynolds
Gladiators Team:
Female Gladiators UK
- Laser
- Lightning
- Rio
- Vogue
Australia
- Delta
- Fury
- Glacier
- Storm
Male Gladiators UK
- Ace
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Wolf
Australia
- Condor
- Taipan
- Tower
- Vulcan
- First appearances of: n/a
- Last appearances of: Laser
The Events (8 Events + Eliminator)
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Pendulum
- Powerball
- Skytrak
- Swingshot
- The Wall
This second Ashes series was brought to the UK and Held at the NIA in Birmingham. It saw some very poor performances from UK Glads and contenders and sadly The Ashes went back to Australia!
Ashes 2 Champions: Marissa Heuttner (Australia) and Paul Stubbs (Australia)
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Royal Tournament 1: 1997
Gladiators Team: 4 Gladiators
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Warrior
- Wolf
(4 Gladiators)
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Season 6: 1997
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: Jeremy Guscott and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Eugene Gilkes
Contenders:
Female Contenders
- Wendy Dawes
- Paula Bush Replacement for Wendy Dawes)
- Julie Hall
- Debbie Sharp
- Wendy Famiglietti
- Jo Newman
- Zoe Kennedy
- Jayne Offer
- Christina Hartley
- Audrey Garland
- Non Evans
- Juliet Machan
- Kerry Shacklock
- Nora Mcgoldrick
- Helen Martin
- Pauline Morris
- Julie Stokes
Male Contenders
- Gordon James
- Carl Wootten
- Piers Bryant
- Matthew Bartlett
- Mark Roberts
- Adam Stretton
- Andrew Sidey
- David Rodrigues
- Ronnie Williams
- Nigel Bannister
- Tony Nesbeth
- Eddie McFarlane
- Brian Doamekpor
- Ally Graham
- Alex Agbamu
- Andrew Whitehouse
Gladiators Team: 17 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- Fox
- Gold
- Lightning
- Rebel
- Rio
- Rocket
- Siren
- Vogue
Male Gladiators
- Ace
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Khan
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Warrior
- Wolf
- First appearances of: Fox, Gold, Khan, Rocket & Siren
- Last appearances of: Warrior
The Events (18 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Danger Zone
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Hit & Run
- Pendulum
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Pyramid
- Skytrak
- Sumo Ball
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
- Tightrope
- Whiplash
This was a season that saw a few Changes. Several New Glads were Introduced but they never really settled into the Team and only lasted the one Season. Gold however left after this Season but made a return for The Springbok Challenge 2, the only Gladiator to ever return to the team!
The Eliminator had a few changes, the introduction of a second cargo net. A series of parallel bar swings replaced the rolling beam and two balancing see-saws replaced the balance beam.
This season also saw the introduction of split events, meaning at a certain point of a show, the woman would play one event and the men would play a different event.
Season 6 Champions: Audrey Garland and Piers Bryant
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Springbok Challenge 1: 1997
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: Glenn Hicks and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders: 8 Contenders
Female Contenders
UK
- Jackie Tindal
- Andreya Wharry
South Africa
- Elmirie Meyer
- Charmaine Smit
Male Contenders
UK
- Mark Mottram
- Brian Whittle
South Africa
- Thorsten Weiss
- Patrcik Potson
Gladiators Team: 20 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
UK
- Lightning
- Rebel
- Rio
- Rocket
- Vogue
South Africa
- Diamond
- Gazelle
- Ivory
- Sahara
- Sheena
Male Gladiators
UK
- Ace
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Wolf
- Saracen
South Africa
- Jackal
- Shakka
- Spider
- Tusk
- Wildebeast
The Events (9 Events + Eliminator)
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Pendulum
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
It was decided a Change was needed, so we invited our South African friends to Birmingham for the "Springbok Challenge". New Glads, new contenders are, a easy win for the UK! After th previous Ashes debarcle was it a plot so we could beat a team who never had a domestic series? I think so!
Springbok Challenge 1 Champions: Andreya Wharry (UK) and Mark Mottram (UK)
______________________________________________________________________________________
Royal Tournament 2: 1998
Gladiators Team: 4 Gladiators
- Fox
- Hunter
- Khan
- Rocket
- First appearances of: n/a
- Last appearances of: Khan & Rocket
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Season 7: 1998
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: Jeremy Guscott and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders:
Female Contenders
- Kate Rudd
- Trudy Ballantine
- Sharon Kewley
- Helena Redwood
- Margo McMillan
- Sarah Hasselby
- Judith Huntingdon
- Sue England
- Fiona Blaiklock
- Jane Smith
- Pauline Shirt
- Tara Liddon
- Clare Short
- louise Raines
- Kate Evers
- Maria Ward
Male Contenders
- Alex Reid
- Rudi Kennard
- Micah Hudson
- Alex Reid
- Dave Walter
- David Hannah
- Neil Parsley
- Mark Whitehouse
- Gary Johnson
- Karl Mullins
- James Burrow
- Colm Curran
- John McAvoy
- Lavern Ritch
- Ross Kirby
- Cassius Frankson
Gladiators Team: 15 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- Fox
- Lightning
- Rebel
- Rio
- Siren
- Vogue
Male Gladiators
- Ace
- Cobra
- Diesel
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Vulcan
- Wolf
- First appearances of: Diesel & Vulcan
- Last appearances of: n/a
The Events (20 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Catapult NEW
- Danger Zone
- Dogfight NEW
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Hit & Run
- Pendulum
- Pole-Axe
- Powerball
- Skytrak
- Sumo Ball
- Suspension Bridge
- Swingshot
- The Wall
- Tightrope
- Vertigo NEW
- Whiplash
This was the shows last full season. It was seen as the last nail in the coffin for the show by many fans. New games were introduced that were very poor, several events were changed that never really took off and the Glads costumes were changed. Ask any GladFan about the costumes and you will get the same response! Urgh!
Season 7 Champions: Jane Smith and Dave Walter
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Season 8: 1999
Venue: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England
Presenters: John Fashanu and Ulrika Jonnson
Event Commontator: John Sachs
Referee: John Anderson
Time Keeper: Andrew Norgate
Contenders:
Female Contenders
- Jane Smith
- Kerryn Sampey
- Janet Allen (Replacment For Kerryn Sampey)
- Audrey Garland
- Andreya Wharry
Male Contenders
- Phil Norman
- Mark Everett
- Piers Bryant
- Dave Walter (Replacement For Piers Bryant)
- Mark Mottram
Gladiators Team: 15 Gladiators
Female Gladiators
- Falcon
- Fox
- Lightning
- Rebel
- Rio
- Siren
- Vogue
Male Gladiators
- Ace
- Cobra
- Diesel
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Saracen
- Vulcan
- Wolf
- First appearances of: n/a
- Last appearances of: Diesel, Falcon, Lightning, Rebel, Vulcan & Wolf
The Events (8 Events + Eliminator)
- Atlaspheres
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Powerball
- Swingshot
- The Wall
- Whiplash
This was the last ever Domestic season of Gladiators. It was put together at the last minute as the show was asked but then the production was asked to put stage a final mini series. It was decieded to bring back previous champions to battle it out for the Title of "Supreme Gladiators Champion"!
Supreme Gladiators Champions: Jane Smith and Dave Walter
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Springbok Challenge 2: 2000
Venue: Standard Bank Arena, Johannesburg, South Africa
Presenters: Glenn Hicks
Contenders: 24 Contenders
Female Contenders
UK
- Pauline Shirt
- Louise Land
- Louise Raines
- Andreya Wharry
- Maria Ward
- Trudi Ballentine
South Africa
- Kirsten Meyer
- Marelize Le Roux
- Marna Dipenaar
- Tammy Le Roux
- Nivea Sekele
- Nicky Seger
Male Gladiators
UK
- Phil Norman
- Mick Jones
- Dave Walter
- Mark Everitt
- Neil Parsley
- Gary Johnson
South Africa
- Michael Toll
- Jason Van Der Walt
- Charles Steenkamp
- Shilo Bunce
- Remington Minkhaw
ile - Juan Pretorius
Gladiators Team:'
Female Gladiators
UK
- Fox
- Gold
- Rio
- Siren
- Vogue
South Africa
- Force
- Fire
- Ice
- Lightning
- Nightshade
- Sahara
- Thunder
Male Gladiators
UK
- Ace
- Cobra
- Hunter
- Rhino
- Saracen
South Africa
- Blade
- Giant
- Granite
- Spider
- Tusk
- Warrior
- Wildebeest
- First appearances of: n/a
- Last appearances of: Ace, Cobra, Fox, Gold, Hunter, Rhino, Rio, Saracen, Siren & Vogue
The Events:
- Atlaspheres
- Demolition Run (AKA Hit & Run)
- Duel
- Eliminator
- Gauntlet
- Hang Tough
- Rat Race
- Gauntlet
- Powerball
- Suspension Bridge
- The MTN Mountain (AKA The Wall)
- Whiplash
Well we thought it was all over but whats this? The Gladiators travelled down to South Africa in 2000 to participate in this series. 10 of our best Glads and 12 of our best contenders went to show that even though our show had gone, we were still the best in the world! This show has never been shown in the UK, but the fans live in hope!
Springbok Challenge 2 Winners: Andreya Wharry and Mark Everett
_____________________________________________________________________________________
The Gladiators
Female Gladiators
AMAZON
Gladiator Career----1995: Season 4, 1996: Wembley Live Shows.
Real Name: Sharron Davies
D.O.B: 1st November 1962
Height: 1.75m
Weight: 62kg
BLAZE
Gladiator Career: 1995: Sheffield Live Shows.
Real Name: Eunice Huthart
D.O.B: 2nd November 1966
Height: 1.70m
Weight: 64kg
FALCON
Gladiator Career - 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1997: Season 6, 1998: Season 7, 1998: Season 8.
Real Name: Bernadette Hunt
D.O.B: 6th November 1963
Height: 1.70m
Weight: 67kg
FLAME
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1
Real Name: Kimbra Standish
D.O.B: 11th June 1965
Height: 1.84m
Weight: 63kg
FOX
Gladiator Career: 1997: Season 6, 1998: Season 7, 1998: Royal Tournament 2, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Tammy Baker
D.O.B: 12th April 1972
Height: 1.75m
Weight: 67kg
GOLD
Gladiator Career: 1997: Season 6, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2
Real Name: Lize Van Der Walt
D.O.B: 2nd December 1965
Height: 1.82m
Weight: 76kg
JET
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows.
Real Name: Diane Youdale
D.O.B: 13th February 1970
Height: 1.67m
Weight: 58kg
LASER
Gladiator Career: 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2.
Real Name: Tina Andrew
D.O.B: 1st July 1972
Height: 1.88m
Weight: 70kg
LIGHTNING
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1998: Season 8
Real Name: Kim Betts
D.O.B: 25th December 1971
Height: 1.70m
Weight: 57kg
NIGHTSHADE
Gladiator Career: 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5.
Real Name: Judy Simpson
D.O.B: 14th November 1960
Height: 1.83m
Weight: 70kg
PANTHER
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5.
Real Name: Helen O'Reilly
D.O.B: 14th October 1963
Height 1.70m
Weight: 66kg
PHOENIX
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1.
Real Name: Sandy Young
D.O.B: 28th November 1969
Height: 1.73m
Weight: 59kg
REBEL
Gladiator Career: 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8.
Real Name: Jennifer Stoute<br />
D.O.B: 14th April 1965
Height: 1.80m
Weight: 70kg
RIO
Gladiator Career: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Jane Omorogbe
D.O.B: 20th September 1971
Height: 1.87m
Weight: 83kg
ROCKET
Gladiator Career: 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Royal Tournament 2.
Real Name: Pauline Richards
D.O.B: 30th June 1968
Height: 1.82m
Weight: 77kg
SCORPIO
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1.
Real Name: Nikki Diamond
D.O.B: 15th March 1965
Height: 1.75m
Weight: 66kg
SIREN
Gladiator Career: 1997: Season 6, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Alison Paton
D.O.B: 4th April 1971
Height: 1.80m
Weight: 70kg
VOGUE
Gladiator Career: 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1998: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Suzanne Cox
D.O.B: 19th March 1972
Height: 1.67m
Weight: 63kg
ZODIAC
Gladiator Career: 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5.
Real Name: Kate Staples
D.O.B: 2nd November 1965
Height: 1.75m
Weight: 62kg
Male Gladiators
ACE
Gladiator Career: 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Warren Furman
D.O.B: 3rd July 1972
Height: 1.85m
Weight: 104kg
BULLIT
Gladiator Career: 1993: Wembley Live Shows.
Real Name: Mike Harvey
D.O.B: Unknown
Height: 1.88m
Weight: 116kg
COBRA
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: 1997: Season 6, 1998: Season 7, 1998: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Michael Willson
D.O.B: 29th October 1963
Height: 1.83m
Weight: 93kg
DIESEL
Gladiator Career: 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8 (Battle of The Giants).
Real Name: Darren Crawford
D.O.B: 12th November 1968
Height: 1.98m
Weight: 105kg
HAWK
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows
Real Name: Aleks Georgijev
D.O.B: 16th March 1968
Height: 1.85m
Weight: 108kg
HUNTER
Gladiator Career: 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Royal Tournament 1, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Royal Tournament 2, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: James Crossley
Date Of Birth: 12th June 1973
Height: 1.90m
Weight: 103kg
KHAN
Gladiator Career: 1997: Season 6, 1998: Royal Tournament 2.
Real Name: Radosev Nekic
Date Of Birth: 26th September 1964
Height: 1.93m
Weight: 114kg
RAIDER
Gladiator Career: 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995 International Gladiators 2.
Real Name: Carlton Headley
D.O.B: 17th September 1963
Height: 1.91m
Weight: 105kg
RHINO
Gladiator Career: 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Royal Tournament 1, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Mark Smith
D.O.B: 30th September 1969
Height: 1.72m
Weight: 112kg
SARACEN
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8, 2000: Springbok Challenge 2.
Real Name: Mike Lewis
D.O.B: 30th August 1963
Height: 1.91m
Weight: 111kg
SHADOW
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1.
Real Name: Jefferson king
D.O.B: 1 July 1961
Height: 1.93m
Weight: 120kg
TROJAN
Gladiator Career: 1993: Wembley Live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5.
Real Name: Mark Griffin
D.O.B: 25 February 1968]]
Height: 1.88m
Weight: 102kg
VULCAN
Gladiator Career: 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8 (Battle Of The Giants).
Real Name: John Seru
D.O.B: 12 January 1964
Height: 1.91m
Weight: 120kg
WARRIOR
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Royal Tournament 1, 1997: Season 6.
Real Name: Michael Ahearne
D.O.B: 30 December 1960
Height: 1.96m
Weight: 132kg
WOLF
Gladiator Career: 1992: Season 1, 1993: Wembley live Shows, 1993: Season 2, 1994: Wembley Live Shows, 1994: Season 3, 1994: International Gladiators 1, 1995: Sheffield Live Shows, 1995: Season 4, 1995: International Gladiators 2, 1995: The Ashes 1, 1996: Wembley Live Shows, 1996: Season 5, 1996: The Ashes 2, 1997: Royal Tournament 1, 1997: Season 6, 1997: Springbok Challenge 1, 1998: Season 7, 1999: Season 8.
Real Name: Michael Van Wijk
D.O.B: 30 September 1952
Height: 1.83m
Weight: 95kg
Controversies & Gladiators
Despite remaining a successful programme, particularly in its early years, Gladiators was not without controversy. One of the earliest criticisms to emerge was that the show seemed to glamorise the use of steroids and body-building, leading several tabloid newspapers to take a keener interest in the Gladiator's personal lives. In 1994, Jefferson King (Shadow) was caught snorting cocaine in a nightclub, and later admitted on daytime TV to using a large amount of steroids during training. He was subsequently fired from the show, due to producer Nigel Lythgoe's belief that he was an unsuitable role-model for children. Another controversy occurred in 1996 when John Fashanu was sacked as co-host of the show, allegedly because of Premiership football match-fixing. The tabloids also focused on the relationship between Gladiator Hunter (James Crossley) and presenter Ulrika Jonsson; the pair initially denied the affair, but later Jonsson admitted it in her 2003 biography. More controversy followed as Warrior, the biggest of the Gladiators, was involved in gun scandals. He was found in possession of a firearm and was charged.
Injuries
Only four of the original Gladiators lineup remained by the time the show finished in early 2000: Cobra, Wolf, Lightning and Saracen. Several of the Gladiators were forced to retire due to personal circumstances and/or injuries. The most notable of these was Gladiator Panther, who sustained a neck injury after falling awkwardly on the game Tilt in 1994. Judy Simpson-Cook who played Nightshade contracted Epstein-Barr syndrome and left in 1996, as did Jet, who sustained a damaged hip after a tackle on the game Pyramid. She later pursued a brief career as a television presenter. Contender Nikki Claxton sensationally broke her neck in training for the 1996 Season on the Pole-Axe event.
The role of 'The Wolfman'
Arguably the most famous Gladiator, as well as a hugely popular children's TV star, was Wolf (aka Michael Van Wijk), who remained in the show for its entire duration. The most outspoken and rebellious Gladiator, Wolf did everything to break the rules from fighting with contestants, arguing with the referee, pulling off contestant's trousers and bullying the presenters. Much of this was seen as a type of comedy/pantomime performance, yet he remained hugely popular with the show's younger fans, appearing in nearly every show aired. John Fashanu later commented that his popularity in the early seasons was so big, that if he didn't come out at least once during a show, some parents would ask for their money back, as children would have felt cheated. Wolf's villain role was later undermined by the introduction of Australian Gladiator Vulcan, who clashed with Wolf on several occasions. American Gladiators fans who have watched Wolf see him as the British equivalent to the American Gladiator Danny Lee 'Nitro' Clark.
The show's demise
Despite several introductions of new games and elements to keep the show fresh and exicting in the later seasons of the show, a massive ratings decline during it lead to the show to be axed. The final episode aired New Year's Day 2000.
The decline in ratings has been put down to two possible causes: firstly, that the show had become tiresome and repetitive, with the same games and Gladiators, and secondly the rise of reality TV, which had started with the "docusoap" format in the late 1990s, meant that viewership was drawn towards other forms of "infotainment", rather than action gameshows.
Spin-off
In the late 1990s, when the popularity of the programme began to wane, a spin-off entitled Gladiators: Train To Win was produced and aired on CITV. The show featured two teams of children, each captained by a Gladiator (varying each week) which sought to gain the most points. Some of the games differed from those on the parent show; for example, the "Eliminator" round was more similar to the "Pursuit" round (though it still featured the famous "Travelator").
Other Countries
The show inspired many other countries to start their own series. The first 4 countries to get in on the act were Russia, USA, UK and Finland. All four appeared on the first International Gladiators series. Shortly after this series other countries such as Nigeria, Australia, South Africa and Germany followed the trend. The last two nations to air the show were Denmark and Sweden, Denmark beginning in 2002 and ending quickly afterwards. Sweden started in 2001 and ended in 2004, after much success including the only ever Gladiators PC game, 'Gladiatorerna'. With Sweden gone in 2004, no other nations remained, and therefore the Gladiators craze was over.