Excitement is mounting as Gladiators is set to make a triumphant return to BBC One with a fresh series launching on 18 January. The revival of the fan-favourite TV show in 2024 introduced a brand-new line-up of Gladiators who have been impressing audiences ever since.

Among the standout stars are Phantom, whose real name is Toby Olubi, and Fury, played by Jodie Ounsley. The pair provided a glimpse into what fans can expect in the upcoming series during their appearance on BBC Breakfast.

Speaking to presenters Roger Johnson and Sarah Campbell, Phantom tantalisingly hinted at an “new game” that ranks as one of his top picks.

“We’ve also got a new game coming,” Phantom disclosed. “Which is definitely up there as one of my favourites.”

Host Sarah queried if this fresh challenge was dubbed “unleash”, but both Phantom and Fury remained tight-lipped, with Phantom urging: “You’ll have to wait and see! ” and Fury interjecting: “Phantom is good at it!”

Expectation is at fever-pitch for the game show’s comeback, steered by hosts Bradley Walsh and his son Barney Walsh. The first episode is slated for broadcast at 5:50 p.m this Saturday, with subsequent weekly episodes to follow, reports the Mirror.

A revered squad of Gladiators from the series will be reprising their roles; names include Sabre, Legend, Diamond, Phantom, Athena, Bionic, Giant, Dynamite, Comet, Viper, Electro, Apollo, Fury, Steel, and Fire, the latter having made waves on the recent series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The revitalised Gladiators squad is set to expand with two mysterious newcomers, whose identities are being tightly guarded. In a disappointing turn for fans, Nitroreal name Harry Aikines-Aryeeteyhas had to bow out of the forthcoming contests due to a training injury.

Adding to the excitement, the new series promises fresh events as well as reintroducing classics like the thrilling Atlaspheres from the iconic 90s show. Contestants and Gladiators alike will clamber into these gargantuan metal spheres, aiming to manoeuvre over specific points to amass scores whilst dodging each other, akin to an intense game in human hamster balls.

Bradley couldn’t contain his enthusiasm about the series: “The new series is just fantastic, the Gladiators mean business and they are back tougher than before! ” Adding to the immersive experience, he disclosed that contenders will be equipped with helmet cameras, giving viewers a first-person perspective of the daunting challenge of facing off against the formidable Gladiators.

Gladiators season two premieres at 5:50pm on 18 January on BBC One, with new episodes airing weekly