Gladiators star Giant has taken his most controversial step yet — going public with his OnlyFans girlfriend just hours after claiming their relationship cost him his place on the hit BBC show.
The TV favourite, whose real name is Jamie Bigg, stunned fans when it was revealed he would no longer appear in the Saturday night series. At first, many believed he had chosen to walk away — but Jamie has now put forward a very different version of events.
According to the 6ft 5in bodybuilder, he was “axed” by show bosses after revealing plans to go public with his girlfriend, Taylor Ryan, who works as an OnlyFans creator. Jamie claimed the decision came shortly after he informed producers about his relationship.
He said he hadn’t expected such a reaction, especially given his commitment to the role since joining the reboot in January 2024. For him, being in the public eye isn’t just about performance — it’s about honesty.
Jamie explained that being a role model means not hiding parts of his life, including the people he cares about. He insisted he didn’t want to conceal his relationship, even if it came with scrutiny.
In a statement, he said he had made it clear he intended to go public with the romance and his partner’s work, and was then told he would not be continuing on Gladiators. He described the outcome as something that didn’t align with his values, adding that he would always stand by his people and his beliefs.
Despite the fallout, Jamie spoke warmly about Taylor, calling her an “incredible person” and saying he was proud of everything she does. He also thanked the BBC for the opportunity, but made it clear he is now focused on the future and a new chapter in both his personal and professional life.
Shortly after the claims surfaced, Jamie confirmed the relationship publicly by sharing a romantic video of the couple dancing together to The Lion King’s Circle of Life — a clear message that he has no intention of keeping the romance under wraps.
The BBC, however, offered a far more measured response. A spokesperson confirmed that after three series, Giant would be leaving the show, thanking him for his contribution and wishing him well.
Jamie had already hinted at tension behind the scenes when announcing his departure, telling fans it wasn’t his decision to step away and suggesting he had been forced into a choice that didn’t sit right with him.
His exit has left fans shocked, with many questioning whether his relationship really played a role — or if there’s more to the story behind the scenes.
