BBC confirm show first for Gladiators as two new additions unveileded | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV

In a first for Gladiators, one of the fighters is Sikh with Athena hoping to “represent all those from diverse and minority backgrounds”.

Athena, whose real name is Karenjeet Kaur Bains, is a champion powerlifter and holds the Guinness World Record for the most bodyweight squats in a minute.

She hopes to be a role model on Gladiators, which starts filming later this week.

Athena said: “I represent all those from diverse and minority backgrounds, especially women, that have ever been denied the opportunity to pursue their dreams in sport.

“I hope I can be a role model and show the levels a female can achieve if she is given the opportunity to follow her passion and given the wings to fly!”

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Athena is joined by Comet, whose real name is Ella-Mae Rayner, an elite gymnast.

Comet, 27, trains six times a week and has claimed former Gladiator Jet is her inspiration.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be Comet. I loved watching Gladiators growing up,” she said of signing up.

“I specifically remember Jet, she was an icon for me as a child and one of the reasons I become a gymnast.

“I can’t believe I will be following in her footsteps. It really is a dream come true.”

The BBC said of Comet: “She is a force of nature, flashing past you. Collide with her and you’ll be dust!”

The reboot of Gladiators will be hosted by Bradley Walsh and his son Barney.

The pair have a link to the show as Bradley’s wife Donna worked as the head choreographer for the original series.

Bradley said of hosting: “Wow! I can’t believe that I’ve been asked to be part of this iconic show.

“I used to sit backstage, or in the audience, every week watching my wife be part of this juggernaut and now I get to co-host a new version of GLADIATORS!!! Saturday night family entertainment at its best…ARE YOU READY ?!”

Barney added: “Gladiators has been a massive part of our family and it’s an honour to be asked to co-host this iconic show. I’m so excited for everyone to see the spectacle, elite athletes and fantastic family entertainment that is GLADIATORS.”

Gladiators is expected to air on BBC One later this year.