Star speaks out after being ‘told I wouldn’t be continuing on Gladiators’
By Lauren Del Fabbro and Carla Feric, Press Association
Gladiators star Giant has said he was told not to return to the BBC show after plans to make his relationship with his partner, a creator on adult content site OnlyFans, public.
The TV star, whose real name is Jamie Bigg, hailed his partner Taylor as an “incredible person” who he has “huge respect” for, and told of how he is “proud to stand by her”.
The former professional bodybuilder and firefighter has appeared on the entertainment show – which sees top athletes take on contestants as they tackle physical challenges – for three seasons but revealed on Friday he will not return for series four.
Bigg, 40, posted on Instagram that he would be stepping down due to a “choice” that did not align with his values, and that his departure was not a decision he made.
In a statement to the Press Association, he said: “I made it clear that I was planning to go public with my relationship, including the fact my partner works as an OnlyFans creator, and shortly after that I was told I wouldn’t be continuing on Gladiators.
“It wasn’t something I expected, especially given the commitment I’ve shown to the role.
“I’ve always taken being in the public eye seriously, and I believe being a role model is about honesty as well as professionalism.
“For me, that means not hiding parts of who I am or the people I care about.
“My partner is an incredible person, and I have huge respect for everything she does – I’m proud to stand by her.
“I’m grateful to the BBC and everyone involved in the show for the opportunity and the experiences I’ve had.
“Now, my focus is on the future.
“I’m excited for what’s next and ready to move into a new chapter, both personally and professionally.”
Bigg praised his role on the popular TV show as “one of the greatest honours of my life” in the post to his 268,000 followers, which has since been flooded with support from fans and stars.
Among the well-wishers were his former co-stars Zack George, who appears on the show as Steel, and Matty Campbell, also known as Bionic.
Prior to being a Gladiator, Bigg was the tallest professional bodybuilder in the world at 6ft 5in and consumed up to 10,000 calories a day.
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 BBC has been contacted for comment.
