Jacob Ant
Gladiators is a British TV show that follows a tournament-style format where male and female contenders compete in strength and speed events against elite athletes, culminating in an obstacle course finale for the championship.
The show is set to make a grand comeback on BBC One on January 13, 2024, as the third edition of the popular reality TV series that first began in 1992. Gladiators 2024 is being produced by Hungry Bear Media and MGM Alternative UK and will be hosted by the father-son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh.
So, get ready to experience a unique Saturday night spectacle, and read this blog to watch Gladiators 2024 in European countries for free by following a simple set of hassle-free steps.
Update: The next episode of Gladiators 2024 will air on March 23, 2024, and will start this year’s semifinals.
How to watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free?
This weekend, a whole new era of superhuman athletes participating in competitions alongside regular participants to test their prowess is starting on BBC One with Gladiators 2024, but Unfortunately, watching this exciting reality TV series is not directly possible in Europe.
This disparity is due to BBC’s geo-licensing restrictions that prevent its content from being accessed anywhere outside the UK.
However, the quick and easy guide below will help you bypass this limitation and watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free:
1- Get ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer (12+3 month free special deal with a 30-day money-back guarantee)
2- Download the VPN app on your device (PC, MacOS, Linux, Android, etc.)
3- Select a British server from the country list
4- Open BBC iPlayer website or app
5- Search for Gladiators 2024 on BBC iPlayer
6- Enjoy
Why do you need a VPN to watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free?
If you happen to reside in Europe and want to watch Gladiator 2024, we have unfortunate news for you: The show is only confirmed to be made available for free on BBC iPlayer in the UK.
The main problem lies in the geo-restrictions of BBC that prevent its content from being accessed anywhere outside the British borders. They do this to abide by the content licensing and distribution policies.
Although an eager streamer can’t really do anything about these complicated laws and regulations, a simple yet effective solution to move past these restrictions exists. You guessed it right; we are talking about VPNs.
These are handy tools that can grant you the ability to virtually relocate yourself to another location based in a different country of your choice. Reliable premium VPNs like ExpressVPN offer a variety of global servers, including ones based in the UK.
By connecting to one of these British servers, you will be able to unblock BBC iPlayer and access your desired content, such as Gladiators 2024 in Ireland, Finland, Sweden, Turkey, France, Spain, Italy, Romania, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France, Norway, Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Switzerland, Croatia, Hungary, Netherlands, Czechia, and other European countries for free.
Why is ExpressVPN the best choice to watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free?
ExpressVPN is highly regarded by various reviewers, including Comparitech, and stands out as the best VPN for accessing region-specific content. This includes programs such as Gladiators 2024 in European countries for free. The service continually improves, maintaining its top position.
Our analysis shows that ExpressVPN’s optimized servers effectively overcome geographical restrictions on streaming platforms worldwide. This is particularly evident with its optimized British servers, which allow for effortless streaming of titles like Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free on BBC iPlayer.
This premium VPN service provider offers an extensive network, with 3000+ servers across 105 countries. This extensive coverage enables users to circumvent regional content restrictions and enjoy various shows, including After Midnight, Dancing on Ice 2024, and Inside the Factory Season 8.
In speed tests, ExpressVPN showcased outstanding performance. Download speeds reached up to 97Mbps, and upload speeds were around 88Mbps. These high speeds ensure HD streaming without buffering, lag, or video quality drops, perfect for watching Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free on BBC iPlayer.
ExpressVPN offers high compatibility with different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and iOS. Our experts even confirm its smooth functioning on Firestick and several Smart TVs, facilitating a pleasant large-screen experience of your desired content, such as Gladiators 2024 in European countries for free on BBC iPlayer.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN includes a MediaStream DNS feature, making it compatible with devices typically not supporting VPNs, such as Roku and Apple TV, and gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. Setting it up on an internet router allows access to region-locked content on any device of choice. It also supports up to 8 simultaneous connections.
Delving deeper into its features, ExpressVPN provides strong security with AES 256-bit encryption, an Internet Kill Switch, Private DNS, and TrustedServer technology. Additionally, its Lightway protocol guarantees fast streaming speeds for a smooth viewing experience.
Currently, ExpressVPN offers a subscription at $6.67/month, which includes a 15-month service at the price of 12, translating to three extra months free with the annual plan. This deal also comes with 24/7 customer support, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 49% discount.
Considering its cost-effectiveness and range of advanced features, ExpressVPN is, without a doubt, the best choice for watching Gladiators 2024 in European countries for free, and you can try it without any risks or hesitations.
Testing NordVPN to watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free
NordVPN has become a notable player in the VPN market thanks to its exceptionally large network of 5000+ servers in more than 60 countries. Acknowledged by reputable reviewers like Techradar, NordVPN is highly effective for circumventing geo-restrictions on platforms like BBC iPlayer and allowing you to access shows like Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free effortlessly.
Our tests validate NordVPN’s capability to unlock various geo-limited contents, including titles like The Martin Lewis Money Show Live Season 13, Food Unwrapped Deep South Adventure, and Digging for Britain Season 11. We rigorously evaluated its internet speeds, as it is the most crucial part of having an uninterrupted streaming session of Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free.
The results indicated notable download speeds of up to 95Mbps and upload speeds of up to 80Mbps, which ensures you will be able to stream all your desired content without worrying about issues like buffering.
NordVPN is compatible with multiple operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and iOS. Its SmartDNS feature is particularly useful for enabling content access on devices that do not inherently support VPNs, including gaming consoles, Roku, and Apple TV.
This top-tier VPN service includes several other advanced features also, including AES 256-bit encryption, Nordlynx, Double VPN, Mashnet, Split Tunneling, an Internet Kill Switch, Dark Web Monitor, and DNS/IP leak protection. It also permits connecting up to 6 devices simultaneously.
NordVPN’s current 2-year subscription offer is priced attractively at just $3.39/month, which is a substantial 59% discount. Additionally, a special promotion provides three extra months for free, culminating in a 27-month plan.
They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support, which makes it a strong competitor to leading VPN services like ExpressVPN, presenting itself as a reliable option for those looking to watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free on BBC iPlayer.
Where to watch Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free?
The much-anticipated Gladiators 2024 is set to premiere exclusively on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. However, the problem is that there’s no official information about the reality show’s international release.
Given that many BBC titles are eventually made available on BritBox in Europe, Gladiators fans might anticipate it to arrive on the platform sometime in 2024, although this hasn’t been officially confirmed by BBC yet.
If you are eager to catch the all-new episodes of Gladiator 2024 in Ireland, Finland, Sweden, Turkey, France, Spain, Italy, Romania, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France, Norway, Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Switzerland, Croatia, Hungary, Netherlands, Czechia, and other European countries for free without waiting for its indefinite European release, using a top-tier VPN service like ExpressVPN could be your best option.
All you would have to do is connect to a British server and mask your European IP with one based in the UK. This virtual shift of geo-location will allow you to access BBC iPlayer content, including Gladiators 2024 in Europe for free without any issues.
Gladiators 2024 – Release Date
Gladiators 2024 is scheduled to premiere on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 5:50 pm on BBC One, and will be available to watch online for free on BBC iPlayer as well. The reality TV series will consist of eleven episodes, each airing at the same time slot every Saturday.
Note: Gladiators 2024 is now streaming on BBC iPlayer.
Gladiators 2024 – Official Trailer
Gladiators 2024 – What to Expect from the Show?
The show follows contestants engaging in various athletic and entertaining games against a team of ‘Gladiators,’ aiming to win a prize. In the revamped version of the iconic 1992 reality show, there will be 16 Gladiators, all of whom are highly athletic and tasked with the role of preventing the contenders from succeeding.
Additionally, referees will be present to ensure fairness in the competition, and a live audience will be there to support and encourage the participants. Gladiators 2024 will be bringing a mix of fresh and classic challenges, culminating in the iconic final event, ‘The Eliminator,’ at each episode’s conclusion.
Who are the Gladiators?
Gladiators 2024 is coming up with a brand-new lineup of superhuman, supersized superstars. Below, we have explored all 16 Gladiators that are going to be competing in this ultimate battle of athleticism:
APOLLO
Name: Alex Gray
Alex Gray, nicknamed “Apollo” for his impressive looks and speed, transitioned from a successful rugby career in the UK, where he captained teams at various levels, to American football.
He became the first British rugby player to join the NFL, signing with the Atlanta Falcons and later becoming the first international player to captain an NFL team.
Known for his intense competitiveness and rigorous training, Gray is highly focused on achieving victory in his sports career.
ATHENA
Name: Karenjeet Kaur Bains
Karenjeet Kaur Bains, embodying the essence of the Greek Goddess Athena, is a celebrated Team GB powerlifter. She has secured 3 Gold and 2 Silver medals in the Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships, and is a five-time All England and British Powerlifting Champion.
Karenjeet, who also excels as a Chartered Accountant, is the first Sikh Gladiator and is deeply proud of her South Asian heritage. Her goal is to inspire diverse backgrounds to realize their potential.
BIONIC
Name: Matty Campbell
Matty Campbell, known as “Bionic,” is a formidable 6ft 6in bodybuilder. His athletic journey began with football, reaching Academy Level, but an accident led him to discover bodybuilding during rehabilitation.
Despite being new to the gym, he rapidly developed a passion for bodybuilding, becoming a force to reckon with.
COMET
Name: Ella-Mae Rayner
Ella-Mae Rayner, or “Comet,” is a former elite gymnast and semi-professional diver who found her calling in the gym following a career-changing ankle injury. Now a fitness model and coach, she trains six days a week and has a background in university-level cheerleading coaching and competition.
DIAMOND
Name: Livi Sheldon
Livi Sheldon, standing at 6ft and known as “Diamond,” is a bodybuilder with a background in sports science. Her athletic journey began in football, where she played from a young age and later captained a women’s team. Livi, a British Finalist in ‘England Toned Figure’ bodybuilding, is recognized for her resilience and strength.
DYNAMITE
Name: Emily Steel
Emily Steel, the youngest Gladiator at 20, is aptly named “Dynamite” for her explosive energy. A former national-level swimmer, Emily is now a dedicated elite CrossFit athlete and under 23’s weightlifting British record holder, balancing her athletic pursuits with university studies in sport and exercise science.
ELECTRO
Name: Jade Packer
Jade Packer, also known as “Electro,” combines strength, speed, and skill in her athletic pursuits. Beginning as a sprinter, she was among the UK’s top 10 fastest runners at age 12. Jade transitioned to bodybuilding at 18, achieving success in various competitions and earning an IFBB Elite Pro Card. She now focuses on CrossFit, blending her sprinting and bodybuilding experiences.
FIRE
Name: Montell Douglas
Montell Douglas, or “Fire,” is a former Team GB sprinter and Olympic bobsledder known for her speed and intensity. Holding the British record for the fastest 100m sprint, she made history as the first UK female athlete to compete in both Summer and Winter Olympics. Montell is a Commonwealth Gold medalist and a top finisher in bobsleigh World Cup events.
FURY
Name: Jodie Ounsley
Jodie Ounsley, named “Fury,” is a professional Exeter Chiefs rugby player with a background in England Women’s Rugby Seven’s and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. A multi-talented athlete, she has also won the Deaf Sports Personality of The Year in 2020. Jodie’s motivation comes from a family history with Gladiators, as her father was a former contender.
GIANT
Name: Jamie Christian Johal
Jamie Christian Johal, “Giant,” is a former firefighter turned bodybuilder. Standing at 6ft 5in, he is one of the tallest bodybuilders, bringing his immense strength and stature to the Gladiators arena. Despite his friendly appearance, Jamie is a fierce competitor in the games.
LEGEND
Name: Matt Morsia
Matt Morsia, or “Legend,” is a former international athlete in long and triple jump and a silver medal-winning powerlifter. Now a successful fitness influencer and YouTuber, Matt continues to inspire through his book ‘The 24/7 Body’. His dedication to bodybuilding and powerlifting makes him a formidable Gladiator.
NITRO
Name: Harry Aikines-Aryeetey
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, nicknamed “Nitro,” is a Team GB sprinter known for his explosive speed. A Commonwealth and World gold medallist, Harry has a distinguished track record from youth championships to multiple European and Commonwealth titles, making him a challenging opponent for any contender.
PHANTOM
Name: Toby Olubi
Toby Olubi, known as “Phantom,” is a former Team GB Bobsleigh Olympian renowned for his speed and strength. He has set a world record in bobsleigh and won Great Britain’s first gold medal at the Whistler World Cup. His sprinting background includes wins in the UK men’s 60m and participation in 100m Olympic qualifiers.
SABRE
Name: Sheli McCoy
Sheli McCoy, or “Sabre,” is a force to be reckoned with in the fitness world. Training up to 19 hours a week, she’s competed in both British Weightlifting and CrossFit championships, also running her own gym. Her fierce and agile nature makes her a formidable Gladiator.
STEEL
Name: Zack George
Zack George, “Steel,” is the UK’s Fittest Man of 2020 and a top-ranked CrossFit athlete globally. His journey in fitness, starting from his teenage years, led him to inspire others through his role as Steel. His unyielding strength and determination make him an indomitable presence.
VIPER
Name: Quang Luong
Quang Luong, known as “Viper,” has dedicated 15 years to bodybuilding, combining it with boxing for a blend of power and speed. A fitness model with roles in films including a James Bond movie, Quang’s precision and agility make him a silent but deadly Gladiator.
Gladiators 2024 – Who are the Hosts?
BBC announced Bradley and Barney Walsh, a father and son team, as the hosts for the reality TV series Gladiators 2024 in an exciting tweet in May 2023.
📢 Presenters, ready? Bradley and Barney Walsh are confirmed as hosts of Gladiators
Read more ➡️ https://t.co/JHXDEQi1Zb pic.twitter.com/NAmYO8UPxH
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) May 3, 2023
Bradley Walsh is known for his television, comedy, and music career. He is also famous as the witty host of ITV’s game show The Chase and its spin-off Beat The Chasers. Other than that, his acting roles in dramas like Coronation Street and Law & Order: UK have garnered him widespread acclaim.
On the other hand, Barney Walsh is an emerging talent in the entertainment industry making a name for himself through various endeavors. One of Barney’s most notable appearances has been alongside his father in the travelogue series Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad.
Gladiators 2024 – Who are the Referees?
The referees have always been a pivotal part of Gladiators, who ensure fairness and excitement in each contest.
This year, the lineup of Gladiators 2024 features an impressive trio of experienced and respected individuals. Check them out below:
Mark Clattenburg
Mark Clattenburg, a highly esteemed English referee, began his Premier League refereeing career in 2004 and was recognized by FIFA in 2006, allowing him to officiate international matches.
His career highlights include refereeing at the 2012 Olympics men’s final, the 2012 Carabao Cup final, the 2014 European Super Cup, and the finals of the 2016 FA Cup, Champions League, and European Championships. He is widely regarded as one of the top European referees of his era.
Sonia Mkoloma
Sonia Mkoloma, a renowned former English netball player, first joined the English National Team, ‘Vitality Roses’, in 1999.
Over her career, she participated in five Netball World Cups and three Commonwealth Games, amassing an impressive 123 international test caps. Sonia currently serves as the Assistant Head Coach for England Netball.
Lee Phillips
Lee Phillips is a multifaceted fitness expert, firefighter, and athlete. After university, he pursued a full-time career in firefighting. His involvement in the fire service led him to compete in firefighter fitness challenges.
Notably, in 2017 and 2022, he participated in the World Police and Firefighter Games in Los Angeles and Rotterdam, competing against 10,000 athletes. Lee clinched gold in both the Ultimate Firefighter and CrossFit events, earning the title of a 4-time World Champion.
The History of Gladiators
In 1982, Johnny Ferraro, inspired by a fundraising event in Erie, Pennsylvania, envisioned transforming competitive games of speed, strength, and skill into entertainment. After eight years of perseverance, including $500,000 in expenses and constant travel, Ferraro’s concept was finally embraced.
Initially conceived as a Hollywood movie, it evolved into the TV series American Gladiators in 1989. The show featured superhero-like characters competing against the public, quickly gaining immense popularity across the U.S. and inspiring a 1991 nationwide tour.
The success of the series caught the attention of the UK’s LWT, leading to the creation of the UK version, Gladiators, in 1992. It featured a team of athletic, not just muscular, Gladiators and became a massive hit, drawing up to 14 million viewers.
The show’s international appeal led to versions in Australia, South Africa, Russia, and other countries, with the UK edition being particularly renowned. After an eight-year run, the series ended in 1999.
However, a 2008 revival by Sky, saw significant success, drawing 10.4 million viewers across its series. A second series in 2009 featured many original Gladiators, underscoring the enduring appeal of the show.
