Massive tornado tears through homes in Oklahoma, injuring at least 10
A tornado in Oklahoma injures at least 10 and devastates homes in Enid.
The Guardian World1 min read
Giant leaves BBC's Gladiators after three series
TL;DR
Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, has left the BBC's Gladiators after three series. He cited a choice that conflicted with his values as a reason for his departure.
Key points
- Jamie Bigg announced his departure on Instagram
- He described being a Gladiator as a great honor
- Giant's exit follows three series on the show
Mentioned in this story
Jamie BiggBBCIlkeston
Gladiators
Gladiators star Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, has left the BBC show following the end of this series.
Bigg announced the news on his Instagram page on Friday, saying that being a Gladiator had been "one of the greatest honours of my life".
The former professional bodybuilder and firefighter, from Ilkeston in Derbyshire, also said in the post that he had been "faced with a choice that didn't align with my values", adding his departure "wasn't a decision I made".
A Gladiators spokesperson said: "After three formidable series, Giant is leaving Gladiators. We'd like to thank him for everything he has contributed to the show and wish him well for the future."
The 6ft 5in (1.96m) star, who has 52cm biceps and eats 10,000 calories a day to maintain his physique, has appeared on Gladiators since its return in 2024.
In January, he confirmed he had dropped his double-barrelled surname Christian-Johal in favour of Bigg, following his divorce and a recent diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The post said: "To my Gladiator family. I want to tell you all that I won't be coming back for season 4 of the TV show.
"Being a Gladiator has been one of the greatest honours of my life.
"Stepping into that arena, hearing the crowd, representing strength, resilience and being a role model... that's something I'll carry with me forever.
"What I do want to make clear is this wasn't a decision I made to step away.
"I was faced with a choice that didn't align with my values. And if you know me, you know this... I stand by my people and I stand by what I believe in.
"That's what being a role model means to me. I'm proud of everything I gave to the show and grateful for every single person who supported me along the way.
"This isn't the end. It's just the beginning. Stay strong. Stand tall."
Listen to BBC Radio Derby on Sounds and follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk
Q&A
Why did Jamie Bigg leave BBC's Gladiators?
Jamie Bigg left Gladiators due to a choice that didn't align with his values, stating it wasn't a decision he made.
How long did Giant appear on Gladiators?
Giant appeared on Gladiators since its return in 2024, participating in three series.
What are Jamie Bigg's physical stats?
Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, is 6ft 5in tall and has 52cm biceps.
