Giant to leave Gladiators at end of current series

Gladiators star Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, will leave the BBC show at the end of this series.

Bigg announced the news on his Instagram page on Friday, saying that being a Gladiator had been "one of the greatest honours of my life".

The former professional bodybuilder and firefighter, from Ilkeston in Derbyshire, also said in the post that he had been "faced with a choice that didn't align with my values", adding his departure "wasn't a decision I made".

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."

The 6ft 5in (1.96m) star, who has 52cm biceps and eats 10,000 calories a day to maintain his physique, has appeared on Gladiators since its return in 2024.

The post said: "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.

"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.

"This isn't the end. It's just the beginning. Stay strong. Stand tall."