Fans of the beloved BBC show Gladiators are in for a disappointment this weekend as the show has been pulled from the schedule due to a scheduling conflict with the FA Cup. Originally set to air on Saturday, March 29, 2025, the rebooted series, hosted by the father-and-son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh, will not be seen this week as the quarter-final match between Brighton and Nottingham Forest takes precedence.
This change has left many fans frustrated, as they were eagerly anticipating the next episode of the competition. Social media has been abuzz with complaints, with one viewer expressing their disappointment, saying, "The only good thing on BBC treated like it’s second rate. What a joke." Another fan chimed in with a suggestion: "Why can’t the football be on BBC iPlayer?" A third fan added, "Oh put the crappy football on the iPlayer and leave the Gladiators slot alone!"
The original UK version of Gladiators first premiered in 1992, hosted by Ulrika Jonsson and footballer John Fashanu. It was a massive hit during its run on ITV, lasting until 2000. After a brief revival on Sky from 2008 to 2009, the show was brought back to life in January 2024 with Bradley and Barney Walsh at the helm.
Fans have had to get used to frequent schedule changes this season, as Gladiators has already faced interruptions. The show has been competing for airtime with various sporting events, including the Six Nations earlier this year. This weekend's FA Cup match coverage will begin at 5 PM, with the game kicking off at 5:15 PM, and is expected to run until 7:30 PM, when regular programming will resume with BBC News.
Despite the disappointment, Gladiators will return to its regular Saturday evening timeslot next week on April 5, 2025, at 5:50 PM. The next episode is set to showcase the highly anticipated second semi-final. Viewers can also catch up on previous episodes from both the first and second series on BBC iPlayer.
The rebooted series has continued to engage audiences with its thrilling challenges and competitive spirit, showcasing fierce battles between contenders and the show’s formidable athletes. The anticipation is building as fans look forward to the grand finale, which is expected to air on April 12, 2025.
In addition to the excitement surrounding the upcoming episodes, the BBC has also announced a casting call for a third series of Gladiators. The network is on the lookout for brave contenders who have the speed and skill to take on the superhuman Gladiators. The call for new participants highlights the show's ongoing popularity and the BBC's commitment to delivering thrilling entertainment.
As fans eagerly await the return of Gladiators, many hope that future scheduling conflicts can be avoided, allowing for uninterrupted viewing of the show that has captured the hearts of many. Until then, the spotlight will be on the FA Cup and the exciting match between Brighton and Nottingham Forest.
In summary, while the absence of Gladiators this weekend is disappointing for fans, the show’s return is just around the corner, promising more action and excitement in the weeks to come.
