⁠"A true celebration" MGM's Dom Bird talks about Gladiators Series 3 

The Sheffield arena will once again host the ultimate test of speed and strength as Gladiators returns to BBC One in 2026. The announcement confirms another full series plus a brand-new Celebrity Special. Bradley and Barney Walsh return as hosts, with all 18 Gladiators set to showcase their power against new contenders. The show has become a Saturday night phenomenon, averaging 5.3 million viewers with strong streaming numbers on BBC iPlayer.

Nearly two-fifths of audiences watch on demand, making it the most-watched Saturday night series on the platform. Younger viewers particularly embrace the format, with 1.3 million tuning in per episode. This demographic represents nearly a quarter of the total audience.

Dom Bird, SVP at MGM Alternative International, describes the upcoming series as a celebration of strength and entertainment. The production promises new events and challenges as four celebrities prepare to take on the arena's toughest tests.

He said:

"Gladiators is such an iconic and well-loved show, we are all delighted to see it capturing the imagination of BBC audiences. Series 3 will be a true celebration of strength, spirit, and entertainment and is already shaping up to be bigger and better than ever.”

Everything to know about the Gladiators series 3

The show has shattered viewing records since its return. The show ranks as the third most-watched entertainment series overall on BBC iPlayer. Its success spans generations, capturing both family audiences and younger demographics.

The format's appeal extends beyond traditional viewing patterns. Streaming numbers demonstrate how modern audiences engage with the content. BBC iPlayer data shows sustained interest throughout each series.

Four brave celebrities will enter the Sheffield arena for the special episode. These famous faces must prove they possess the strength to succeed against the contenders. The celebrity format adds fresh excitement to the established formula.

Previous celebrity specials have drawn significant attention. The upcoming special promises similar high-stakes entertainment. Viewers can expect the same intensity that makes the regular series compelling.

Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, emphasized audience enthusiasm:

"Audiences have loved getting together to watch our mighty Gladiators take on contenders from all across the UK with younger fans especially excited to cheer on their Saturday night superheroes. With this brand-new series and another Celebrity Special confirmed there will be even more epic battles, more high-octane action and of course even more foam fingers than ever before for everyone to look forward to!"

Dan Baldwin from Hungry Bear Media highlighted family appeal:

"We have been absolutely blown away by the reception Gladiators has received from families up and down the country. It has become a HUGE part of Saturday night viewing on the BBC. We are extremely excited to deliver another series, so expect even more spandex, hairspray, protein shakes and fake tan this summer in Sheffield!"

What lies ahead for the franchise?

The production team promises enhanced the spectacle for 2026. New events will challenge both contenders and Gladiators. Sheffield's arena setting continues to provide the perfect backdrop for these battles.

The show has successfully reclaimed its position as essential Saturday night viewing. The combination of nostalgia and modern production values resonates across demographics. Series 3 represents the franchise's continued evolution while honoring its core appeal. With MGM Alternative UK and Hungry Bear Media leading production, viewers can anticipate elevated entertainment when the arena doors open again.

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Gladiators Series 3 is expected to drop in early 2026 on BBC iPlayer.

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