Oiled-up muscles, severely competitive bodybuilders and cocky (some might say foolish) members of the general public: yes, Gladiators is back.
The hit show – which first aired more than 30 years ago – was rebooted by the BBC last year and became their most-watched new show of the year, drawing in 6m viewers for its first episode.
With a popular first season under its belt, a new gang of average Joes will be heading back to the small screen to go head to head against the Gladiators.
Here’s what to know.
What’s the premise?
Think Total Wipeout, but with an extra twist: in addition to a killer assault course, you’ll be running it against an athlete at the top of their game.
These athletes are the Gladiators: lycra-clad, muscled-up bodybuilders who want nothing more than to beat your score and put you in your place.
It’s presented by Bradley Walsh and his son Barney, and each episode sees four players – here called ‘contenders’, two men and two women – compete in a series of events against the Gladiators. There’s also one final event, the Eliminator, which pretty much does what it says on the tin: contestants go up against each other in a gruelling obstacle course that spans the arena floor.
Gradually, the contestants will be winnowed down until only the strongest remain. But the question remains: will they be able to beat the Gladiators?
Who are the Gladiators?
Many of the first series’ Gladiators will be returning to the show once more. These are Sabre, Legend, Athena, Giant, Bionic, Diamond, Viper, Phantom, Comet, Apollo, Steel and Fire (who recently made an appearance on Strictly Come Dancing).
Nitro, however, will not be joining them on the arena floor. The athlete, whose real name is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, posted on Instagram that he’d received a knee injury during training. "Speed is my thing, but sometimes life throws a curveball! I’ll be shifting gears this series and sitting out the events.
"But don’t worry, I’m recharging and more energised than ever! You’ll still catch me bringing the Nitro spirit to your screens.”
Instead of Nitro, the Gladiators are being joined by two newcomers. Their identities are being kept secret at the moment – so watch this space.
There will also be three referees, who will be judging the events and making sure the competition is fair. You’ll be able to spot them by their Sheffield United-style striped jerseys; they’re former England netball player Sonia Mkoloma, former Premier League ref Mark Clattenburg and fitness professional Lee Phillips.
Where is it filmed?
Filming took place at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
When does it air?
The show is back on our screens on BBC One from January 18. It’ll air at 5.50pm, and will be airing at the same time every Monday until the finale in March.
Missed out? No problem: the show will also be available to watch back on BBC iPlayer.
Is there a trailer?
There sure is: we’ve popped it at the top of the page.
