Gladiators star Giant has cryptically revealed he has left the BBC series after being faced with a choice that “did not align” with his values.
The former professional bodybuilder and firefighter, real name James Bigg, has been a regular fixture on the show since the reboot premiered in 2024. But ahead of series four, he stepped away, suggesting he was forced into making the decision.
“To my Gladiator family. I want to tell you all that I won't be coming back for season four of the TV show,” he wrote on Instagram, adding: “Being a Gladiator has been one of the greatest honours of my life”.
Bigg continued: “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.”
According to Giant, he was “faced with a choice that didn't align with my values”. He wrote: “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.”
Bigg finished his statement by saying: '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.”
The Independent has contacted the BBC for comment, but a spokesperson for the show thanked Bigg “for everything he has contributed to the show”, adding that they “wish him well for the future.”
Gladiators’ official Instagram page confirmed the news with a post honouring the performer.
“After an incredible run, Giant’s journey on Gladiators has come to an end, but what an adventure it has been. As well as being a towering force when battling contenders, Giant has always inspired confidence and kindness in others, a winning combination proving he is a true giant, not just in strength, but also in spirit.”
Bigg previously went by the name Jamie Christian-Johal, but he went back to using his birth name Bigg after divorcing his wife Katie in November 2025.
Earlier this week, original Gladiators star Lize van der Walt, best known as Gold, died, aged 60.
The trained athlete, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2013, died on Sunday (19 April). Her death was announced by the show’s official social media page, reading: "We're deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gladiators' golden girl, Gold.”
