BBC Gladiators faces an unprecedented injury crisis after four of its stars sustained serious injuries during filming. The popular revival show has been rocked by a series of accidents that occurred at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
Matt Morsia, known as Legend, suffered the most severe injury when he tore his bicep completely off the bone during filming. The fitness influencer required surgery and has lost 15kg in weight during his recovery.
He shared a photo from his hospital bed showing his bandaged arm and nasal catheter. Morsia revealed: "I tore my bicep off the bone {and lost 15kg in weight)."
Livi Sheldon, who performs as Diamond, ruptured both her ACL and MCL ligaments in what she described as a devastating moment. She said: "While filming Gladiators, I suffered a full ACL AND MCL rupture. One moment I was in action, the next I was facing surgery."
Severe medical complications
WalesOnline reports that Morsia experienced severe post-operative complications, including 12 days without eating and constant hiccups for eight days. The extent of his medical difficulties highlights the serious nature of the injuries sustained during production.
Diamond expressed her determination to recover fully from her knee surgery. She said: "Now, after having surgery, I'm ready to attack this rehab with everything and more because being unbreakable is about how you rise after you fall."
Two additional Gladiators also suffered injuries during the same filming period. Karenjeet Kaur Bains, known as Athena, injured her knee, while Matty Campbell, who performs as Bionic, dislocated his shoulder.
Show commitment remains strong
Despite the multiple injuries, all affected Gladiators will appear in the upcoming third series when it airs next year. A BBC spokesperson confirmed: "We finished filming the series last month and all Gladiators will be in series three and be part of the tour."
The injured stars are also expected to participate in the live autumn tour. The injury crisis comes as the BBC's Gladiators revival continues to attract massive audiences following its return after a 24-year hiatus.
The show previously aired on ITV until 2000 before the BBC brought it back with a new generation of athletic competitors. Host Bradley Walsh recently teased the upcoming series, describing the competition as closer than audiences could imagine.
Sources used: "Mirror", "WalesOnline"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
