The cast of the BBC show Gladiators reportedly want bosses to reinstate competitor Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, who was removed from the lineup due to his relationship with OnlyFans model Taylor Ryan. Sources close to the show suggest that several cast members feel Bigg was "thrown to the wolves" and that his dismissal was an "overreaction by panicked executives."
Filming for the new series is set to begin soon, and there have been internal communications among cast members discussing efforts to support Bigg and advocate for his return. These individuals reportedly believe that Bigg "has been treated unfairly" and that his situation sets a "scary precedent," making them concerned about potential repercussions from their own private lives.
Bigg, 40, a bodybuilder, began dating Ryan late last year after meeting at a Gladiators Live event. He was removed from the show shortly after disclosing his intention to go public with their relationship, including the fact that Ryan works as an adult content creator. In a statement released in April, Bigg stated he was not expecting his dismissal, especially given his commitment to the role, and that he believes in being honest about his relationships.
He claimed that a producer, Dan Baldwin, branded Ryan's career a "child safeguarding risk." However, Bigg has insisted that parents who are fans of the show have expressed support for him, with many children being upset by his departure.
Bigg asserted that there are no clauses in their contracts dictating who cast members can be with or what relationships they can have outside the show. He stated that his partner is an "incredible person" and that he is "proud to stand by her."
Bigg and Ryan reportedly split in June. Bigg announced the separation in an Instagram video, stating he was "working on myself" and needed to focus on personal growth. He indicated a desire to be a better person and to address his journey with ADHD and mental health. The pair remain friends, and a source indicated they have not ruled out reconciliation, but Bigg is currently prioritizing self-reflection.
Bigg, who was previously the world's tallest professional bodybuilder, divorced his ex-wife Katie late last year. They share two children. His ex-wife reportedly expressed feeling "hurt and shocked" by his relationship with Ryan, which began months after their divorce.