Taylor Ryan, the ex-girlfriend of Gladiators star Jamie "Giant" Bigg, has claimed that he ended their relationship in an effort to get back on the show after he was removed from the lineup due to their public romance. Ryan stated that she believes Bigg's breakup was motivated by her career as an OnlyFans model and his desire to return to the rebooted television series.
Bigg, a bodybuilder, was reportedly dismissed from the show by the BBC after disclosing his relationship with Ryan. Ryan told The Sun that she felt "blindsided" by the breakup, which occurred over the phone shortly after they had discussed engagement and starting a family. She also suggested that Bigg took only his Gladiators costume and memorabilia when he left her home, leaving behind other belongings.
This is not the first time Ryan has spoken out about the situation. Last month, she claimed that Bigg dumped her due to her OnlyFans career, despite his previous public defense of her. In an Instagram video, she described the situation as a "trauma dump" and expressed that she was initially scared to start over but felt she was now in a safe place.
Following Bigg's dismissal, reports indicate that other cast members of Gladiators have petitioned BBC bosses to reinstate him. These cast members reportedly feel that Bigg was treated unfairly and that his removal was an overreaction by the network. Sources suggest that some Gladiators are concerned that Bigg's firing sets a precedent, making them anxious that their personal lives and relationships could be used against them in the workplace.
Bigg and Ryan began dating late last year, shortly after Bigg's divorce from his previous wife. Bigg announced his split from Ryan in June, just weeks after his removal from the Gladiators cast. He stated in an Instagram video at the time that he was not in a relationship and was focusing on himself, acknowledging that he had "a lot of people to apologize to" and "a lot of things to be accountable for."
Prior to his Gladiators role, Bigg was known as the world's tallest professional bodybuilder. He has also spoken about his struggles with ADHD and mental health.