Taylor Ryan, the ex-girlfriend of "Gladiators" star Jamie “Giant” Bigg, has claimed he ended their relationship because of her career in adult content, specifically her work on OnlyFans. Ryan stated she was “blindsided” by the breakup in June, weeks after Bigg was removed from the “Gladiators” reboot cast. Bigg had previously stated he believed he was sacked from the show because the BBC did not approve of his relationship with Ryan.
Ryan shared her account in an Instagram video, detailing her experiences. She mentioned that Bigg's association with her OnlyFans career was initially blamed for his departure from the show, and that both he and others defended her work. However, she later added, “He broke up with me because of my job anyway,” accompanied by a shocked emoji.
Following Bigg’s dismissal, reports indicate that several cast members of "Gladiators" have appealed to BBC bosses to reinstate him. These castmates reportedly feel he was treated unfairly and that his removal was an overreaction by executives. A source told The Sun that many cast members are unhappy, feeling Bigg was made an example of, despite following his heart. Concerns have been raised that this situation sets a difficult precedent, potentially leading to private lives and relationships being used against performers in the workplace.
Bigg, a 40-year-old bodybuilder, began dating Ryan late last year after meeting at a "Gladiators" Live event. He had recently separated from his wife at the time. Bigg stated in April that he had informed show bosses of his intention to go public with his relationship, including Ryan’s OnlyFans career, and was subsequently cut from the upcoming series. He criticized Gladiators producer Dan Baldwin, who is married to Holly Willoughby, claiming Baldwin referred to Ryan's career as a "child safeguarding risk."
Bigg asserted that he had received support from parents who are fans of the show, with many of their children upset by his departure. He also pointed out that their contracts did not contain clauses about personal relationships. In a subsequent Instagram video announcing their split in June, Bigg stated he was focusing on himself and working on becoming a better person, acknowledging he had people to apologize to and things to be accountable for. He and Ryan remain friends, and he traveled to Spain for a period of reflection. A source indicated that while they haven't ruled out getting back together, Bigg needs to focus on himself currently. Bigg and his ex-wife, Katie, who share two children, finalized their divorce late last year.