GLADIATORS 'RENEWED FOR THIRD SERIES' ON BBC ONE

The iconic sports entertainment show has reportedly been recommissioned for a third series on BBC One, with Series 2 continuing every Saturday night.

The first series quickly gripped the nation and consolidated to near 10 million viewers, with a second series quickly ordered and airing at the moment. The BBC are yet to formally announce the recommission, with filming expected to commence this Summer.

Once again hosted by father and son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh, the show will see the Gladiators competing against a brave set of contenders in the ultimate test of speed and strength. They will take part in a series of brand-new games alongside classic challenges including fan-favourite The Eliminator.

A source told The Sun: "Channel chiefs invariably wait to see how one series does before they order another one - but usually they wait more than fortnight before they make a decision. But season two of Gladiators has just been so well received it was a no brainer to commission a third outing as soon as possible. It will be a huge thrill to the ever-growing army of fans of the family-friendly show."

Returning to the arena for the second series are all sixteen Gladiators from the first series who quickly became household names - Sabre, Legend, Nitro, Diamond, Phantom, Athena, Bionic, Fire, Giant, Dynamite, Viper, Electro, Apollo, Comet, Steel and Fury.

The current series also introduces audience to two brand new Gladiators - Cyclone and Hammer. 23-year-old Cyclone is an Irish Powerlifter and at 5 foot 10 considers herself the ultimate all-round athlete, whilst 32-year-old World Rowing Champion, Hammer, from Nottingham claims that the combination of his strength and speed, at the height and size that he is, is rare and sets him apart from everyone else.

Gladiators continues Saturdays on BBC One, with previous episodes available on BBC iPlayer.