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Joe Marler, the former rugby player, is set to make history as the first celebrity Gladiator on the BBC’s renowned entertainment programme. At 36 years old, Marler, who previously appeared on the initial season of Celebrity Traitors, will take on the Gladiators arena under the name Mauler when the show returns for its fourth series in 2027.
In an Instagram video shot inside the Gladiators’ dressing room, Marler introduced himself with the words, “Mauler will see you now,” officially announcing his new role. The BBC has revealed that his debut will feature a series of “special appearances packed with power, personality and plenty of surprises.” Filming for the upcoming series is currently underway in Sheffield, according to an official BBC statement.
Describing Marler’s reputation, the BBC highlighted his “uncompromising style of play and larger-than-life sense of humour,” noting that he is considered one of the UK’s most entertaining sporting figures. As he steps into the Gladiators’ ranks, Marler brings his well-known physicality and competitive nature to one of television’s most demanding competitive formats. Hailing from Heathfield, Sussex, the former England rugby international will compete alongside existing Gladiators such as Nitro, Viper, Diamond, and Sabre when the series airs next year.
The Gladiators show originally found widespread success on ITV during the 1990s, featuring members of the public battling against elite athletes, each with distinctive on-screen personas. The 1995 version included Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, who was famously known as the Gladiator character Amazon. After a 2008 revival on Sky that lasted two series, the format was launched again in 2024 on BBC One, swiftly regaining popularity. Additionally, a celebrity spin-off series is currently in development, with contestants lined up including presenter AJ Odudu, comedian Sara Pascoe, podcaster Chris Ramsey, and social media personality George Clarke
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