Tom Stoltman: From World's Strongest Man to BBC Gladiator

Tom Stoltman's Gladiators Debut

Three-time World's Strongest Man champion Tom Stoltman is swapping the atlas stones for the Eliminator. The 32-year-old, 6ft 8in (203cm) athlete from Invergordon in the Scottish Highlands has joined the cast of BBC's Gladiators for its fourth series, replacing the Gladiator known as Giant (Jamie Bigg), who left after three series. Stoltman's Gladiator name has yet to be announced, but the move marks a significant crossover from elite strength sport to mainstream television entertainment.

Stoltman was the first Scot to win the World's Strongest Man title when he was first crowned champion in 2021. He retained the title in 2022 and won again in 2024, making him a three-time champion. He is also a four-time Britain's Strongest Man, most recently winning in February 2026, beating Adam Bishop and Paddy Haynes. But a hand injury blighted his chances at the 2026 World's Strongest Man competition, where he was eliminated in the qualifying heats.

Now, Stoltman will test his speed, strength, and endurance against contenders in the Gladiators arena. Filming for the fourth series begins in Sheffield in July 2026, with the series set to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One in 2027. The series will include a new event alongside returning events like Duel, Hang Tough, The Eliminator, Everest, Destruction, and Suspension Bridge. The show is produced by Hungry Bear Media and MGM Alternative UK, a division of Amazon MGM Studios, and was commissioned by Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC. It will be hosted by Bradley and Barney Walsh.

Stoltman described the opportunity as a 'dream opportunity' and expressed excitement to bring his strength, determination, and personality to the arena, aiming to inspire viewers. 'I've spent my life pushing myself to see what I can achieve and joining this incredible show is the next challenge,' he said. '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 themselves and take on their own challenges.'

This transition from strength sports to entertainment is not entirely new—former strongman competitors have appeared in film and television before—but Stoltman's signing represents a direct pipeline from the World's Strongest Man podium to a primetime BBC arena. It also comes at a time when strongman competitions are gaining broader viewership, with events like the World's Strongest Man drawing millions of viewers on streaming platforms. For Stoltman, the move offers a chance to reach a wider audience and build a brand beyond the sport.

The timing is notable. Stoltman's hand injury at the 2026 World's Strongest Man may have closed one door, but the Gladiators opportunity opens another. The show's fourth series will feature a new event, details of which have not been disclosed, alongside the classic challenges that have made the show a hit. The celebrity special, also commissioned, suggests the BBC is doubling down on the franchise's popularity.

For fans of strongman, Stoltman's Gladiator debut will be a chance to see a different side of the athlete. Known for his calm demeanor and technical proficiency in events like the deadlift and log press, Stoltman will now need to showcase agility and speed in the arena. The transition from static strength events to dynamic, timed challenges will test his versatility. His 6ft 8in frame will be an asset in events like Duel and Hang Tough, where reach and leverage matter, but the Eliminator's running and climbing sections will demand a different kind of conditioning.

The departure of Giant (Jamie Bigg) after three series leaves a gap in the Gladiators lineup. Bigg was a fan favorite, known for his imposing size and competitive spirit. 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.' Stoltman's signing brings a fresh face and a proven track record of elite performance, which could inject new energy into the series.

Stoltman's journey from the Highlands to the Gladiators arena is a testament to the growing crossover between strength sports and entertainment. As strongman competitions continue to gain traction on platforms like YouTube and ESPN, athletes like Stoltman are becoming household names. His move to Gladiators could pave the way for more strongman athletes to explore television roles, blurring the lines between sport and showmanship.

The fourth series of Gladiators is expected to air in 2027 on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. With a new event, a new Gladiator, and a celebrity special, the show is positioning itself for another strong season. For Stoltman, the challenge is clear: prove that a World's Strongest Man can also be a Gladiator. If his track record is any indication, he will not disappoint.

Read the official BBC announcement for more details.