Fan favourite Gladiator leaving the show after 3 series
He's said it wasn't his decision
Last updated 3 hours ago
After three series on the show, Jamie Bigg, better known as Giant, is leaving the BBC entertainment programme Gladiators.
The BBC confirmed the news on Friday 24th April, with a spokesperson saying: "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."
Giant has since released a statement to his own Instagram page, telling fans it wasn't his decision to step away, but he was faced with a choice that didn't align with his values.
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.
'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'.
Fans and co-stars were quick to comment on the post, one wrote: 'You’ve inspired so many people & have been amazing throughout! Good luck on the next venture 🔥🔥', with another adding: 'Oh no I’m so sad to hear this. My children and I love watching you and it won’t be the same without Giant but we wish you the best of luck in whatever you do next! Well done for being you and standing up for what you believe in ❤️🥰'. (sic)
A third wrote: 'Hey big guy you were truly a giant on this show. You brought honesty and integrity to the show. It was truly a pleasure meeting you and wish you all the very best for the future. Big up yourself big man 🙏💪😀'. (sic)
Another added: 'You will be missed Giant. You are my favourite. You have inspired me and so many people. Thank you 💪💪🤝'. (sic)
Giant has been part of the show since the reboot in 2024, quickly becoming a fan favourite alongside the likes of Diamond, Fury, Steel and Apollo.
Although Gladiators is set to return for a fourth series in early 2027, no other casting details have been announced just yet.
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