World’s Strongest Man Tom Stoltman joins BBC’s Gladiators for new series after Giant's shock exit
Tom is definitely bringing his strength to the arenaTom Stoltman is set to test contenders to their limits after joining the cast of Gladiators for the new series.
The three-times World’s Strongest Man champion’s recruitment comes following Giant’s shock exit.
The 6ft 8in Scottish strongman is famously nicknamed The Albatross due to his massive wingspan and world-record performances on the Atlas Stones.
He will join the formidable lineup of superhumans when production for series 4 of Gladiators resumes at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
Tom Stoltman announced as new Gladiator
Tom has shared his delight at being picked as Gladiators’ newest recruit.
He said: “This is a dream opportunity and I’m incredibly proud to become a Gladiator. I’ve spent my whole life pushing myself to see what I can achieve, and joining this incredible show is the next challenge.
“I’m excited to bring my strength, determination and personality to the arena but, most importantly, I want people watching to feel inspired to believe in themeselves and take on their own challenges.”
Tom will also appear in the next Gladiators Celebrity Special.
Once again, four brave stars will step into the arena. They will take on iconic events such as Duel, Hang Tough, and The Eliminator. They’ll also face recent fan-favourites Everest, Destruction, and Suspension Bridge.
Father-and-son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh will return to host both the main series and the star-studded special.
What is Tom Stoltman’s Gladiator name?
Tom, who hails rom Invergordon in the Scottish Highlands, has won the World’s Strongest Man title three times. He scooped the accolade in 2021, 2022, and 2024. He’s also won multiple Britain’s Strongest Man titles.
He has also been an inspiring advocate for autism awareness. Tom has spoken openly about his diagnosis at age five and how sport helped shape his journey.
But for now, his official Gladiator name and look is being kept a secret for now.
BBC bosses have, however, promised the upcoming series will push both contenders and Gladiators further than ever before.
Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, said: “Since Gladiators burst back onto screens, it’s been amazing to see families across the UK rally behind the contenders and champion our phenomenal Gladiators as the true stars of Saturday nights.
“With a brand-new series confirmed and another Celebrity Special on the way, audiences can look forward to even more colossal clashes.”
The Gladiators Celebrity Special is expected to air this Christmas. Series 4 will launch shortly after at the beginning of January 2027.
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