Gladiators

Didn't see the original, but this is a change from other Saturday night shows and the ubiquitous quizzes, most of which I love. It's brilliant to have a show all ages can watch together so it works well having Bradley and Barney (father and son) presenting, especially following on from ladies Tess and Claudia doing Strictly before Christmas - we don't need a male and female heading every show as that becomes too samey. There are loads of amazing role models for girls and boys as all competitors and most of the Gladiators are great sports and the remaining Glads make excellent panto villains! Look forward to Season 2.

The show works better than expected by sticking largely to the original format. Pity no wolf, he was a character! The pretend fights are a bit feeble and I do miss John Anderson's Scottish accent and authorititive manner, you'd not question him, though Mark Clattenberg isn't bad. Some gladiators lack the distinct image and personality of the originals and some don't get the gladiators are meant to be imperious and slightly scary, not friendly and chatty and often intimidated by the contestants.

But who does casting for the BBC? A show about youth and athleticism presented by two people making painful cheesy jokes? Must go down with Question of Sport and Doctor Who as the worst casting in living memory. Do they realise it's not just about picking someone who's popular? They have to fit the show. Someone who's good at quiz shows is totally the wrong image for a highly competitive, combatitive sports / fitness show?

The show has been something of a surprise, and certainly manages to bring some of the old magic back to the screen. There are problems though, the presenting team simply doesn't work. The Morecambe & Wise act that Brad & Lad seem to be going for completely misses the mark, it simply doesn't fit this show. The other issue is that we have two pantomine villains: Legend and Viper. Out of the two, Legend is more convincing, and at least has an element of cheek to his act, and he does look half-convincing as a competitor, but what is the point of Viper? A couple of changes and the magic might be complete.

The third resurgence of the Gladiators franchise was both a surprise hit in the UK in the early parts of 2024 but also my household. More than just 90s nostalgia it brought back fond memories of foolish American physicality vehicle "Ultimate Tag" and we were instantly invested. Filmed in Sheffield arena and with a slew of new younger gladiators (highlights being the one-who-always-understands-the-assignment Legend and the perennially endearing Fury) the only real flaw is the decision to rely on father-and-son presenting team the Walshes. Bradley has the gift of the gab and Barney is a 2D cut-out of a man. Here's hoping another series brings some changes and breaks up the repetition of repeated games a bit, because I'll always have fond memories of this first one.

Initially I thought I'll just watch the first episode to see how bad it might be, as the 2008 reboot was cringy and did not have the same feel as the beloved 1990s show. However I was plesently surprised - they have somehow managed to capture the heart & feel of the 90s show, but with a modern twist.

Yes its all camp, panto fun...but thats what also makes it great relaxing family weekend TV. We dont all need complex crime dramas or bland quiz shows...here is somethign that is unabashedly fun. It doesnt market itself as an aloof serious show...it just want to let 'superhuman' athletes (the nearest we will get in real life) to go up against 'normal' everyday folk (although most of the contenders here spend a fair about of time in the gym/fitness).

You have your 'Hero' and 'Villian' members which all adds to the fun - but there is also a great sense of admiration and positive feedback to each other and the contestants.

I concur with some other comments that whilst Bradley Walsh et al are OK as presenters, I feel they fall a little short in connection with the series - no Owogas being shouted here...but there is a great -CONTENDERS READY from the new Ref!!!

Great way to spend 60mins of your life sat with the family shouting at the screen without having to travel to Sheffield and purchase a giant foam finger!!!