Gladiators season 3 stars shatter the myths behind being a cast member – and answer child fan questions

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The new Gladiators show on the BBC is a huge hit on Saturday nights, but it makes you wonder: are the incredibly fit contestants heroes, villains, or something else entirely?

With a little help from some young fans, RT poses some very important questions…

Nitro

aka Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, 37

What’s the biggest myth about being a Gladiator?

A common misconception about being a Gladiator is thinking we don’t want our opponents to succeed – but we absolutely do! We provide the physical strength, speed, and power, but the contenders are what truly make the show exciting.

What’s your Achilles’ heel?

It’s likely referring to The Edge, a performance done at a significant altitude. I consider myself a practical and down-to-earth person, so if I could skip any event, it would definitely be that one.

Kids look up to all of you like gods. How do you handle that?

I play along with their curiosity. When children ask my age, I like to tell them I’m incredibly old – a thousand years, even – and a bit magical, like a demigod. I explain that any special abilities I have come from the gods themselves.

You know, back in ancient Greece, people believed visiting a temple actually gave the gods power. It got me thinking… I often tell audiences that the more they react – the cheers, the gasps, even the chatter – the more energy I get. Seriously, they’re like my power source, fueling my performance. The louder they are, the stronger I feel!

Do you feel a responsibility to your fans – ie the power cells?

I always dreamed of being a Gladiator, but I chose to compete in the Olympics first. Now, incredibly, I’m a Gladiator! It’s amazing to think that young fans watching the show might be inspired to become great athletes – or even the next generation of Gladiators. I often hear people say they encouraged their kids to try climbing after seeing me, Nitro, on TV. While I’m not fast enough to win an Olympic medal in speed climbing, I’ve inspired kids to give it a try, and that could mean we discover the next speed-climbing champion thanks to the show – that’s really special.

Let me tell you, taking my daughter to soft play is always a disaster. But trampoline parks? Forget about it! I end up completely swamped – I’m too busy trying to keep an eye on her while also being surrounded by a bunch of energetic kids and, honestly, getting pulled into all the action myself. It’s impossible to actually watch her when I’m constantly being bombarded and feeling like I’m in the middle of a competition!

When your Gladiators legend is written, how do you hope to be remembered?

I first acted in a play in third grade, and my character was Hercules. I became completely fascinated with the idea of being a demigod – someone with incredible powers like flying, super strength, and the speed of Hermes. I’ve always wanted to be remembered like Hercules, as someone who gave their all and represented their country with pride.

Having done both, which is more competitive, Gladiators or Strictly Come Dancing?

Gladiators feels more directly competitive because it’s all about outsmarting your opponents. Unlike Strictly, you’re not judging one dance against another on the same day. However, Strictly is much tougher mentally. It really tests your resilience – you need to be able to handle criticism, and a mistake can feel devastating. It’s about navigating that process while staying true to who you are.

If you had the ability to foresee the future, similar to the mythical Cassandra, what predictions would you make about the upcoming season of Gladiators?

I’m thrilled to be back! I think the last season of Gladiators felt a little harsh without me, and I’m here to bring the fun and entertainment back to the show. It’s been two years since anyone’s seen Nitro compete, so I’m declaring 2026 ‘The Year of the Nitro’!

Jake, 7, asks…

What’s your favourite dinner?

Nitro is an amazing chef, but I actually rely on pizza for good luck! I eat one every week before a big performance. I make them myself, and my favorite is loaded with pepperoni and mozzarella – I like to add spicy pepperoni, nduja, and sometimes a drizzle of hot honey. It’s absolutely delicious!

Sabre

aka Sheli McCoy, 37

What’s the biggest myth about being a Gladiator?

People often think we’re here to be the villains, to eliminate the competition. But that’s completely untrue. Our real job is to help each contestant perform at their best. I challenge people to reach their full potential, pushing them as far as they can go, but never beyond their limits.

What is the hardest part of the job? The most Herculean task?

It’s not about the physical strength itself – that’s straightforward. The real challenge lies in managing the image and the expectations that come with it: striving to be seen as incredibly powerful and skilled, but also remaining approachable and inspiring to others.

What’s your Achilles’ heel?

I don’t have any weaknesses. As Sabre, I’m incredibly capable and can handle anything you throw at me.

That said, have you ever had a tainted, Pyrrhic victory?

I’ve had to do things like that a lot. Like with Nia on the first series of The Edge – I was supposed to defeat her, but she was really upset, and it didn’t feel like a satisfying victory, more like something I just had to do.

Like Icarus, have you ever flown too close to the sun?

I’m driven to constantly challenge myself, even to the point of exhaustion. That’s just how I operate. I always ask myself how far I can push things today. I’ve definitely overextended myself many times, but that’s where real growth happens. I believe you can only truly discover what you’re capable of by going beyond your perceived limits.

I’m a co-owner of a 6,500-square-foot gym that includes a complete fitness area, a weightlifting section, and is officially affiliated with HYROX. We have a team of seven staff members, and we’ve recently added a recovery room. On top of that, I still run my sports rehabilitation clinic, my show ‘Gladiators’ is currently airing, and I’m doing this interview – many people would have considered all of this impossible to manage at once.

Kids look up to you like you’re a god. That’s quite a responsibility…

When your legend is written, how do you hope to be remembered?

Today marks 33 years since my dad passed away. Thinking about it, if I were to die today, I’d feel good knowing I’ve helped people. So many parents have shared how Gladiators positively impacted their children, helping them overcome challenges with self-esteem, sports, health, and eating disorders.

If you could tell us the future, what can we expect from the new series?

I’m really looking forward to this new series! It’s great that they’re releasing fresh games alongside a remastered classic. My initial reaction when I heard about it was disbelief – I wondered if it was even possible, and if it would work.

What has been your favourite audience sign?

It’s become a running joke on the show – fans are constantly proposing to Sabre for my dad! They even have their kids make signs asking him to marry her. Apparently, it’s gotten to the point where people are sending messages directly to him backstage – Apollo recently received a sign with a woman’s phone number and Instagram username on it!

Legend

aka Matt Morsia, 40

What’s the biggest myth about being a Gladiator?

A common misunderstanding is that Gladiators is a team where everyone contributes equally. However, the truth is they mainly exist to support Legend.

When your legend is written, how do you hope you’ll be remembered?

I don’t “hope”. I’m wholly confident that I’ll be remembered as the greatest Gladiator of all time.

Do you have an Achilles’ heel?

I think it’s likely because I excel at everything. It’s tricky to design systems that account for someone being good at all the games, both from a technical standpoint and because it tends to make others jealous. It reminds me of the attention Muhammad Ali and Martin Luther King received – when you’re the best, you naturally become a target and draw a lot of scrutiny.

What’s the hardest part of being a Gladiator?

It’s mostly about handling the crowds, especially for me. Getting into the arena is a real struggle. They make me arrive eight hours early on purpose, but there are still thousands of fans waiting, all trying to get close.

Like Icarus, have you ever flown too close to the sun?

I’m incredibly heat-resistant – I’ve even been exposed to extreme temperatures and wasn’t affected. It’s hard to explain, but I can withstand things others can’t. For example, I can handle hot objects directly, like pulling something out of a very hot oven with my bare hands. My skin is just naturally very tough and doesn’t burn easily.

Metaphorically and literally?

Yes, literally.

Have you ever had a Pyrrhic victory – a win you’ve not been satisfied by?

Most people are thrilled with a single win, but for me, winning is just what I expect. It’s difficult to feel truly satisfied when you’re consistently at a high level of achievement. I set incredibly high standards for myself, and constantly push to exceed them.

Kids look up to you guys like gods. Do you feel a responsibility there?

It’s complicated. On one hand, it’s true that a lot of people look up to me, which is flattering. But honestly, I’m content just being myself. Simply existing, or even just being seen, might be enough to motivate others, and that’s really all I need.

Do kids approach you in the street – and if so, what do they say?

I get that a lot. People usually tell me things like, “You’re the best Gladiator ever!” or ask how I got so good, or why I’m better than everyone else. Sometimes they even ask how they can improve to be more like me. That’s pretty much what people say.

And what do you say?

“Don’t touch me. Leave me alone.”

Imagine you could predict the future, like the mythical Cassandra. What would you say about the upcoming season of Gladiators?

I’m participating! That’s all the information that really matters. A good headline would be: ‘Gladiators series three – Legend is joining.’ That should cover it.

Why are you such a doughnut?

Okay, this is just weird. It really seems like Charlotte’s being prompted by someone else – an adult, probably. Someone who’s clearly not my biggest fan, honestly. They seem… resentful, maybe even jealous, and they’ve clearly filled Charlotte’s head with nonsense. The fact that she called me a doughnut? Yeah, that didn’t come from her. I mean, I love doughnuts, they’re amazing, but I am decidedly not one. Let’s just say I’m pretty talented at a lot of things, okay? I’m good at pretty much everything, and it’s frustrating that someone would try to undermine that.

Fire

aka Montell Douglas, 39

What’s the biggest myth about being a Gladiator?

I believe our greatest asset isn’t just physical power, but our mental fortitude and determination. Being a Gladiator is more about inner strength and courage than physical prowess.

When your legend is written, how would you like to be remembered?

More than my accomplishments, I want to be remembered for how I impacted others. I strive to be strong, enjoyable, and just, both on the show and in my everyday life, and I believe that truly reflects who I am.

What is your Achilles’ heel?

I think my empathy sometimes gets in the way. I’m a naturally compassionate person, and I really respect my opponents and the work they do. Because of that, I sometimes find myself feeling bad for them, which can be a disadvantage.

Have you ever suffered a Pyrrhic victory?

People often compare being in the Gladiator arena to the story of David and Goliath, but I expect everyone to give their absolute best effort, because I will be too. I never want to win unless my opponent is also performing at their peak.

Kids look up to you like gods. Do you feel that’s a responsibility?

It’s both a responsibility and a privilege. I feel honored to be seen as a role model. Surprisingly, when thinking about the show, the impact on kids wasn’t the first thing that came to mind, even though it’s a really nostalgic and memorable show for those of us who grew up with it.

Do you meet a lot of young fans?

I absolutely love meeting people who enjoy the show! I affectionately call my fans ‘Flames,’ and it’s amazing to see them come dressed in full costume – it doesn’t matter their age or gender, they always go all out!

We recently learned that a young girl started doing track and field because of me! Her parent told me she said, “I want to be fast like Fire! Take me to the track!” It’s amazing to think I inspired her to try a new sport she might not have otherwise.

Chloe, 5, asks…

Why did you choose the name Fire?

I think of myself as Fire because it’s energetic and radiant. But more than that, fire is surprising and a little wild! I’m versatile – quick, and people often underestimate my strength. As an element, I represent a fundamental source of energy in the world, and I really embrace that.

Steel

aka Zack George, 35

What’s the biggest myth about being a Gladiator?

A lot of people think we’ve always been in great shape and full of energy, but that wasn’t the case for me growing up. I actually had a pretty unhealthy lifestyle as a kid – I didn’t eat well, I didn’t exercise, and I lacked self-confidence. Now look at me – I’m a Gladiator!

Like Icarus, have you ever flown too close to the sun?

Winning the UK’s Fittest Man title in 2020 was incredibly demanding. About two weeks into the five-week competition, I realized it had completely taken over my life. I was training for four or five hours daily and had no time for friends or a social life. It required huge sacrifices, and I started to wonder if it would all be worth it. But I pushed myself, telling myself I would win, and thankfully, I did.

What is your Achilles’ heel?

I played a lot of rugby growing up, and I probably injured my ankle around 20 to 30 times. So for me, my Achilles’ heel would be my left ankle. Almost a literal Achilles’ heel!

What’s the hardest part of being a Gladiator?

I sometimes find it hard when they think that my Mr Nice Guy personality is going to spill into the games. When that whistle blows, I’m there to win.

Kids look up to you. Does that give you pause for thought?

Being Steel isn’t just about the suit, it’s about what I represent. I genuinely want to inspire people – especially kids, but honestly, anyone – to believe they can achieve anything they set their minds to. One of my favorite things is sharing stories of my own younger self with them, and seeing their reactions – it’s incredible! It really seems to spark something within them, and that’s the best feeling.

What are your predictions for the new series?

As a film enthusiast, I’ve noticed the competition really upped their game this time around. They came back noticeably improved – bigger, faster, stronger, the whole deal. Honestly, it doesn’t intimidate us, because we’ve been working on our own improvements too. But what really struck me was how much more prepared they seemed. You could tell they’d been carefully analyzing past matches and totally revamped their strategy.

Penny, 5, asks…

How is Steel so steel?

I love that. I always get asked that. It’s like, “How much of your body is actually steel?” I train twice a day, six days a week and I’ve done that for about 10 years. I have six meals a day, about 4,500 calories. I do running, swimming, cycling, rowing, weightlifting, squats, bench-press and gymnastics. It’s varied!

Fury

aka Jodie Ounsley, 25

What’s the biggest myth about being a Gladiator?

A common misconception is believing we have to separate our personal selves from our professional personas. In reality, we can successfully blend who we are as people with what we do, embracing both sides of ourselves.

What is the hardest part of the job? The most Herculean task?

Injuries are always a possibility, whether you or your friends get hurt. But that’s just part of playing a demanding sport or being on a TV show. Everyone experiences minor aches and pains – both the competitors and the Gladiators. The key is to adjust and keep going.

Have you ever had a Pyrrhic victory on the show — where your win felt tainted?

It’s frustrating when something you’ve prepared for mentally ends very quickly. Like getting hyped up for a Duel, focusing on the challenge, only for it to be over in a matter of seconds, leaving you wondering if all the effort was worth it.

Kids look up to the Gladiators like they’re gods. Do you feel that responsibility?

Growing up, it would have been amazing to have a role model I truly connected with – someone I could aspire to be like. Now, we have the chance to be that person for others.

You know, as someone who’s deaf and uses a cochlear implant, I get asked a lot if I ever think about how my experience might inspire other kids facing similar challenges. And honestly, it’s something I do think about. I really hope that seeing me – seeing someone living a full life, enjoying movies and everything else – can show them that anything is possible. It’s a big part of why I’m so open about it, actually. If my story can help even one kid feel more hopeful or empowered, that would be amazing.

I was pretty anxious heading into the TV and production setting, especially about being open about my deafness. I have some challenges in certain situations, so I knew I needed to be upfront. Thankfully, everyone was wonderful.

It struck me how impactful it could be, particularly on television, for children to witness that representation. It’s fantastic to be able to make deafness seem ordinary for kids who aren’t familiar with it, and hopefully, seeing us on Gladiators will help them understand it better.

Which of the other Gladiators are you the most afraid of?

Cyclone is a really wonderful person – incredibly kind and with a fantastic energy when you get to know her. But she’s also incredibly strong and powerful; you wouldn’t want to get on her bad side! Honestly, she’s the most physically imposing woman I’ve ever met, and that’s saying something considering my background in rugby.

Gladiators returns on Saturday 17th January at 5:45pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

Authors

Huw FullertonCommissioning Editor

Huw Fullerton works as a Commissioning Editor at TopMob magazine, where he focuses on content related to entertainment, comedy, and niche dramatic productions.

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2026-01-12 20:19