Latest news with #Gladiators
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Strictly Come Dancing in talks with married reality TV star as BBC bosses back him to resist show's 'curse'
Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly in talks with a married reality TV star, as BBC bosses are convinced he won't fall victim to the show's infamous 'curse'. The so-called 'Strictly curse' has been a tabloid staple for over a decade - rooted in the idea that taking part in the show often spells trouble for contestants' relationships. Now, insiders reportedly claim producers are keen to sign none other than Paul Brunson. The clean-cut relationship expert is known for his roles on Channel 4 's hit shows Married At First Sight UK and Celebs Go Dating. The American star, who now lives in London, is seen as a safe option - and potentially just what Strictly needs following two drama-filled series. A source told The Sun: 'Paul would be the ideal tonic to the dark clouds over Strictly as he's clean-cut, very intelligent and has no scandals to worry about. 'They are now in discussion but he's met with producers a number of times. 'Everyone is hoping he'll sign on the dotted line and is keen to make it happen.' MailOnline has contacted the BBC and Paul's representatives for comment. It comes just days after a Gladiators star was rumoured to have signed up for this year's show after 'impressing' BBC producers on the Christmas special. The superhuman, 36, took part in last year's festive edition and was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu. Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines Aryeetey, has reportedly agreed to appear on the regular series this autumn. A show insider told The Sun how the ex-Olympian had been on bosses' wish list for some time now. The said: 'Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. 'They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work. 'He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in lycra and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing. 'The Gladiators' fanbase is growing and kids love them so he'll be a hit with younger viewers, too.' MailOnline has contacted Nitro's rep and the BBC. Nitro previously hinted at a role in the main series when he revealed he would be taking part in the Christmas special with an injury. He told The Mirror: 'I am carrying an injury to some degree. It's been quite tough. I'm not my full self. Hopefully that's taken into consideration. But at the same time, I'm just here for a good time. I can dance, I can enjoy myself, that's the most important thing. 'Although I think we're going to do well and although I think we're going to have fun with it, it would be nice to do myself 100% justice by competing another time on the main series. 'It would be good to be in a position where I can show my ultimate self. I've got the bug. If the opportunity arises… it's obeing in an arena and learning a new skill. If the opportunity arises, I would jump at it, literally because I'll be able to jump by then.' Earlier this year Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the professional lineup for 2025. Dianne Buswell, who lifted the glitter ball in December with Chris McCausland, will be joining Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Jowita Przystal in returning to the dance floor this September. Amy Dowden, who pulled out in the opening weeks of last year's show due to a foot injury, will also be back on Strictly for 2025, as will Carlos Gu and Kai Widdrington, who didn't have a celebrity partner last year. Despite rumours that he might be making a return after missing out on last year's series, Giovanni Pernice will not be heading back to the ballroom this time around. Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios said : 'The excitement is already building ahead of the new series and in addition to welcoming back our fantastic returning Pros, we are looking forward to welcoming two brand new Professional Dancers to the line up who will help bring another unforgettable series of dazzling dance and loads more besides to viewers later in 2025.'
Wales Online
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC Strictly Come Dancing 'signs up' Gladiators star after show controversy
BBC Strictly Come Dancing 'signs up' Gladiators star after show controversy Strictly Come Dancing bosses are said to be 'in talks' with a Gladiators star for the 2025 series Gladiators' Nitro, also known as Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, is set to join the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The 36-year-old has previously graced the BBC show's dance floor. In the 2024 Christmas special, he partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu, 33, and their performance earned them one of the highest scores of the night—an impressive 37 points for their Street/Commercial routine. The former Olympic sprinter caught the attention of the show's bosses, who are keen to have him on board for a full season of the popular dance competition, now in its 23rd year. It's hoped that he can juggle his commitments with Gladiators, which typically films over the summer months. Strictly usually kicks off in August, but contestants are confirmed weeks prior and start training immediately to build their confidence before the live shows commence. Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, aka Gladiator star Nitro, is expected to join the cast of Strictly in 2025 (Image: Getty Images ) Welsh Love Island star Emily Moran breaks silence as she joins ITV2 cast as bombshell READ MORE: Fay Ripley admits she owes her marriage to The Traitors star in One Show confession READ MORE: An insider told The Sun: "Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work," reports the Mirror, whih has reached out to the BBC and Harry's representatives for comment.. Article continues below The source added: "He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in spandex and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing." An insider also suggested that the addition of Nitro could draw a fresh audience to Strictly, as producers aim to replicate the family-friendly success of Gladiators. Strictly has faced its share of controversy and criticism in recent years, with allegations of misconduct by professional dancers and celebrity participants behaving inappropriately. Last year, Go Compare singer Wynne Evans caused a stir when he was seen touching dancer Katya Jones inappropriately. Further scandal ensued during the 2025 Strictly Live Tour when off-colour remarks made by Evans behind the scenes were leaked. Jamie Borthwick, another participant from the 2024 series, found himself embroiled in controversy this month following revelations that he used a derogatory term to describe the residents of Blackpool during the show's filming there. The previous year, Strictly was overshadowed by accusations from actress Amanda Abbington who claimed she was mistreated by professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. A BBC investigation was launched while Giovanni left the show, maintaining his innocence throughout. Harry appeared in the 2024 Christmas special where he danced with Nancy Hu (Image: BBC Studios/Guy Levy ) In another incident, professional dancer Graziano Di Prima confessed to accidentally kicking his celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals, leading to his departure from the show. Strictly Come Dancing is set to grace our screens once again this year, with the familiar judging panel of Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood all confirmed to return. There's speculation that this season could be Craig's last on the show, as he previously declared he would leave after reaching 60. Craig celebrated his 60th birthday this year, leading some viewers to worry that he might bow out after the forthcoming series. Yet, it seems he may have had a change of heart regarding his departure. Article continues below Speaking to The Mirror, he remarked: "I have no intention of quitting because it's a fantastic Saturday job that I intend to do into my 80s, as long as I'm still compos mentis, darling! and if I haven't been cancelled before then!". Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC iPlayer
Edinburgh Live
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
BBC Strictly Come Dancing 'signs up' Gladiators star for 2025 series
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Gladiators star Nitro, real name Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, has been 'signed up' to join the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing. The 36-year-old former Olympic sprinter previously appeared on the BBC show's 2024 Christmas special, where he was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu, 33. The duo wowed the judges and were one of the highest scoring couples, earning an impressive 37 points for their Street/Commercial performance. Strictly bosses were so impressed that they're now hoping to secure him for a full season of the popular dance contest, which will be in its 23rd season this year. It is hoped that he will be able to juggle his commitments with Gladiators, which traditionally films across the summer. (Image: Getty Images) Strictly usually begins airing in August each year, but contestants are secured weeks in advance and immediately begin training to gain confidence on the dance floor ahead of the live shows. An insider told The Sun: "Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work," reports the Mirror, which has reached out to the BBC and Harry's representatives for comment. The source added: "He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in spandex and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing." The insider also suggested that they hoped Nitro's participation could draw a new demographic of fans to Strictly, as the show's bosses aim to capitalise on the family-friendly success of Gladiators. (Image: PA) Strictly has been mired in controversy and scandal in recent years following allegations of abuse by professional dancers and star contestants behaving inappropriately. Last year, Go Compare singer Wynne Evans caused a stir when he was seen touching dancer Katya Jones. He later sparked controversy during the 2025 Strictly Live Tour when inappropriate comments he made off-camera were leaked. Fellow 2024 contestant Jamie Borthwick found himself at the centre of a scandal this month after it emerged he used an offensive term to describe the people of Blackpool during the BBC show's filming there. (Image: BBC Studios/Guy Levy) A shadow was cast over Strictly the previous year when actress Amanda Abbington accused professional dancer Giovanni Pernice of abuse. A BBC investigation was launched while Giovanni left the show, maintaining his innocence. Fellow professional dancer Graziano Di Prima confessed to accidentally kicking celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals, leading to his departure from the BBC show. Strictly Come Dancing is likely to resume this year, with the return of judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood. However, it is uncertain if Craig will continue beyond this season, as he previously expressed his intention to leave the show after turning 60. This milestone birthday has now passed, sparking concerns among fans that he may retire at the end of the upcoming season. Nevertheless, in an interview with The Mirror last year, Craig seemed to reconsider his decision, stating: "I have no intention of quitting because it's a fantastic Saturday job that I intend to do into my 80s, as long as I'm still compos mentis, darling! and if I haven't been cancelled before then!". Strictly Come Dancing is available on BBC iPlayer
Wales Online
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Soccer Aid star Livi Sheldon's life as Gladiators' Diamond, fitness guru fiance and football past
Soccer Aid star Livi Sheldon's life as Gladiators' Diamond, fitness guru fiance and football past 'Diamond' is out for revenge as she takes to the pitch at Old Trafford for this year's Soccer Aid Sheldon soared to fame on Gladiators but dreamt of becoming a professional footballer Soccer Aid is back for 2026 with a host of famous faces from the world of sport, music and entertainment taking to the Old Trafford pitch to raise money for UNICEF. After winning the title for the first time in eight years last time out, England are looking to defend their crown, with the likes of Tom Grennan, Louis Tomlinson and Dame Denise Lewis joining forces with football legends including Paul Scholes, Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville for the Three Lions. However, they are up against an impressive World XI side that has called in a host of stars from the beautiful game, including Rivaldo, Carlos Tevez, Edwin van der Sar, Nemanja Vidic and Leonardo Bonucci. The football stars will be joined by famous faces like Tony Bellew, Martin Compston, Bryan Habana, Richard Gadd and Gorka Marquez. Also joining the World XI is Livi Sheldon - perhaps better known to viewers as Diamond from the hit BBC reboot of Gladiators. The 31-year-old, who made her Soccer Aid debut last year, is out for revenge to help her team steal back the title from England and is well-equipped to do so, having been a keen footballer since an early age. Article continues below Having initially played for a boys' side she eventually moved over to a girls' team, where she was captain for many years. Sheldon also played for her local team Worcester City Ladies as a midfielder and was again named skipper, before later leaving football behind and moving into bodybuilding and personal training. "I played from the age of six, up until around the time I was at college - around 18, 19," she told Forbes last year, as she revealed she had trained with Worcester City again after being called in to play at Soccer Aid. "Then I actually had another little stint for a couple of years when I was 23 or 24. And then I didn't kick a ball until I got asked to play Soccer Aid!" "It's been a while but I've been practising lots and Worcester City have been really helpful with letting me train with them again." She added: "I would absolutely have loved to be a professional footballer. The opportunities the girls have now... "At Worcester City, they have a development squad there now which bring young girls and boys up from the age of six, and bring them through the different age groups. "The pathways they have there for different teams is just incredible so I think if I was young Liv playing now, I think she may have well been a professional footballer." After starting weight training aged 18, the 6ft star can now squat a huge 120kg, while her bodybuilding career saw her reach the final of the 'England Toned Figure' competition. Article continues below She now lives in Worcester with her fiancé Grant Gibbs, with the pair both working as online personal trainers. Gibbs describes himself as a "body transformation and mindset coach", while Sheldon runs her own training app called LivFitness.
Daily Mail
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Gladiators star 'signs up for Strictly Come Dancing' after impressing BBC bosses during Christmas special
A Gladiators star has signed up for this year's Strictly Come Dancing, after 'impressing' BBC producers on the Christmas special. The superhuman, 36, took part in last year's festive edition and was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu. Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines Aryeetey, has reportedly agreed to appear on the regular series this autumn. A show insider told The Sun how the ex-Olympian had been on bosses' wish list for some time now. The said: 'Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. 'They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work. 'He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in lycra and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing. 'The Gladiators' fanbase is growing and kids love them so he'll be a hit with younger viewers, too.' MailOnline has contacted Nitro's rep and the BBC. Nitro previously hinted at a role in the main series when he revealed he would be taking part in the Christmas special with an injury. He told The Mirror: 'I am carrying an injury to some degree. It's been quite tough. I'm not my full self. Hopefully that's taken into consideration. But at the same time, I'm just here for a good time. I can dance, I can enjoy myself, that's the most important thing. 'Although I think we're going to do well and although I think we're going to have fun with it, it would be nice to do myself 100% justice by competing another time on the main series. 'It would be good to be in a position where I can show my ultimate self. I've got the bug. If the opportunity arises… it's abut being in an arena and learning a new skill. If the opportunity arises, I would jump at it, literally because I'll be able to jump by then.' Earlier this year Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the professional lineup for 2025. Dianne Buswell, who lifted the glitter ball in December with Chris McCausland, will be joining Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Jowita Przystal in returning to the dance floor this September. Amy Dowden, who pulled out in the opening weeks of last year's show due to a foot injury, will also be back on Strictly for 2025, as will Carlos Gu and Kai Widdrington, who didn't have a celebrity partner last year. Despite rumours that he might be making a return after missing out on last year's series, Giovanni Pernice will not be heading back to the ballroom this time around. Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios said : 'The excitement is already building ahead of the new series and in addition to welcoming back our fantastic returning Pros, we are looking forward to welcoming two brand new Professional Dancers to the line up who will help bring another unforgettable series of dazzling dance and loads more besides to viewers later in 2025.'
