Gladiators star Giant has stepped into the spotlight with his new girlfriend, OnlyFans creator Taylor Ryan, just one day after revealing he would not be returning to the BBC show.
The fan favourite, whose real name is Jamie Bigg, had originally been thought to have walked away from Gladiators. But the 6ft 5in bodybuilder has now claimed he was actually dropped from the series after telling bosses he planned to go public with his new relationship.
Jamie, who joined the revived show in January 2024, split from his wife Katie last November. He is now dating 28-year-old Taylor Ryan, who is known for her online content.
In a statement, Jamie alleged: “I made it clear that I was planning to go public with my relationship, including the fact my partner works as an OnlyFans creator, and shortly after that I was told I wouldn’t be continuing on Gladiators.”
He added: “It wasn’t something I expected, especially given the commitment I’ve shown to the role.”
Jamie insisted he did not want to hide parts of his life, saying: “I’ve always taken being in the public eye seriously, and I believe being a role model is about honesty as well as professionalism. For me, that means not hiding parts of who I am or the people I care about.”
The star also defended Taylor, describing her as an “incredible person” and saying he was proud of “everything she does.”
Shortly after the statement, Jamie and Taylor made their relationship public with a sweet video of themselves dancing together to The Lion King’s Circle of Life.
A Gladiators spokesperson said: “After three formidable series, Giant is leaving Gladiators. We’d like to thank him for everything he has contributed to the show and wish him well for the future.”
But Jamie had already hinted there was more to the story. In an emotional Instagram post, he wrote: “This wasn’t a decision I made to step away. I was faced with a choice that didn’t align with my values.”
He continued: “I stand by my people and I stand by what I believe in. That’s what being a role model means to me.”
Despite the shock exit, Jamie ended on a defiant note, telling fans: “This isn’t the end it’s just the beginning. Stay strong. Stand tall.”
