Father-and-son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh have been confirmed as hosts on the BBC’s rebooted Gladiators series.
The cult series originally ran from 1992 to 2000 and at its peak was a huge ratings winner for ITV, with the famous call of “Contenders Ready? Gladiators Ready?” echoing across TV screens.
The BBC confirmed last August that Gladiators would be returning for an 11-episode run where it will be welcoming a new generation of “superhumans” who will compete against contestants in the “ultimate test of speed and strength”.
Due to begin filming at the Utilita Arena Sheffield later this year, the news was met with huge excitement, especially in the Walsh household, as Gladiators has always been a huge part of the Walsh family.
Donna Walsh, Barney’s mum and Bradley’s wife, was head choreographer for the Gladiator cheerleaders on the original series.
Bradley, and a very young Barney, were regular visitors on set, with Barney taking some of his first steps on the iconic arena floor. Not to be outdone, Bradley followed in his small son’s footsteps when he took part in a celebrities vs jockeys special, in 1997.
Speaking about helming the next generation, Bradley, 62, said in a press release: “Wow! I can’t believe that I’ve been asked to be part of this iconic show. I used to sit backstage, or in the audience, every week watching my wife be part of this juggernaut and now I get to co-host a new version of GLADIATORS!!! Saturday night family entertainment at its best... ARE YOU READY ?!”
For his part, Barney, 25, added: “Gladiators has been a massive part of our family and it’s an honour to be asked to co-host this iconic show. I’m so excited for everyone to see the spectacle, elite athletes and fantastic family entertainment that is GLADIATORS.”
The series, which will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, will include new games alongside classic challenges – with each episode ending with fan favourite, gruelling obstacle course The Eliminator.
