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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Scarlett O'Toole

Gladiators star Wolf looks unrecognisable amid news the iconic TV show is set to return

Michael Van Wijk is best known for his role as the long-haired resident bad guy Wolf on Gladiators, though he now sports a very different look from his time on the show.

The 69-year-old bodybuilder became one of the most popular Gladiators on the programme and was well-known for his hatred of losing.

Wolf was instantly recognisable for his icy stare and curly brown hair, though fans might now struggle to recognise him after he swapped his trademark perm for a shaved head.

Michael also traded the UK for a life in New Zealand, where he lives with his wife Paula. The professional sportsman opened a series of gyms there following his time on Gladiators.

Michael became famous as Wolf on Gladiators (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
He has now ditched his long hair (@wolfgladiatoruk/instagram)

Michael is still dedicated to fitness and works out regularly, often posting clips on his Instagram account. His most recent post showed his huge muscles after he had completed an arm workout.

He captioned the snap: "So good to be back in training. I will be posting new content regularly now. Just finished my arm session. Got a really good pump. I really missed that feeling."

Fans were loving the picture, with one person commenting: "Still an absolute legendary beast."

Another said: "Still looking great wolf," while a third added: "YES! Good to see you back Wolfman!"

Wolf still makes sure to workout in the gym (@wolfgladiatoruk/instagram)

The star also posted a snap of himself shooting a gun, writing: "Went clay bird shooting yesterday. I was absolutely useless at hitting them as they flew through the air.

"If I had to shoot prey to survive I would definitely starve LOL."

Michael recently reminisced about his time on Gladiators, calling it "wonderful".

Speaking to GB News, he said: "Let me tell you it was a wonderful time in our lives. I’d done a bit of acting before Gladiators and a few people would notice you.

A reboot of the show has been confirmed (LWT)

"But after Gladiators it all became crazy. Even now when I get back home and come through the airport the custom’s guys put their thumbs up and everyone wants a photo.

"The recognition is still there which is nice."

The BBC recently confirmed a massive eleven part series of the iconic 90s staple. The much-loved show will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2023.

Filming will take place at the Utilita Arena Sheffield in 2023 and the BBC say further information about the series, including broadcast details will be announced, in due course.

Gladiators is coming to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2023.

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