Joe Marler becomes BBC’s first-ever Celebrity Gladiator
Former England rugby star Joe Marler has been cast as the first-ever celebrity Gladiator, adopting the persona 'Mauler' for the show's fourth series. The series is produced by Hungry Bear Media and MGM Alternative UK for the BBC.
Why it matters
The inclusion of a high-profile athlete in a popular entertainment franchise highlights the ongoing trend of blending sports and reality television.
The rugby legend and TV personality will join the epic Gladiators in battle, introducing fans to his new identity - Mauler
(Image: Hungry Bear Media) Former England rugby international star Joe Marler is stepping into the arena in a formidable first, joining BBC’s Gladiators as the show's first-ever Celebrity Gladiator. Produced by Hungry Bear Media and MGM Alternative UK, a division of Amazon MGM Studios, the series returns to BBC iPlayer and BBC One in 2027.
Trading the rugby pitch for the iconic Gladiators arena, Marler will join the epic Gladiators in battle, introducing fans and audiences alike to his new identity - Mauler.
Mauler, the Gladiator, will make his debut across series 4, where he'll go head-to-head with some of the Contenders in special appearances packed with power, personality and plenty of surprises.
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