Gladiators’ Giant Alleges He Was ‘Sacked’ Over OnlyFans Model Relationship

Former Gladiators star Jamie Bigg – better known to viewers as Giant – has alleged that he was sacked from the show because of his relationship.

Last week, Giant made headlines when he announced he was stepping away from Gladiators after three seasons on the cast of the rebooted game show.

“What I do want to make clear is this wasn’t a decision I made to step away,” he said at the time.

“I was faced with a choice that didn’t align with my values. And if you know me, you know this… I stand by my people and I stand by what I believe in. That’s what being a role model means to me.”

He has since alleged that he was dropped by Gladiators because he wanted to go public with his relationship with his girlfriend Taylor Ryan, who is an OnlyFans model.

“I had to choose between dating Taylor and keeping my job,” he told The Sun over the weekend, noting that he was “shocked and very saddened about their choice to sack me”.

The firefighter and former professional bodybuilder alleged that he was told by Gladiators producers that by going public with his romance, he could be “providing an access to adult content for children”, something he branded “absurd”.

“One of the most disappointing things is that all I’ve tried to do is be a good person and a good role model, and the BBC haven’t been either of those things,” he lamented.

“Essentially, I don’t want to work for people like that either.”

In a statement to the Daily Mail last week, Giant said: “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.

“It wasn’t something I expected, especially given the commitment I’ve shown to the role. 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.

“My partner is an incredible person, and I have huge respect for everything she does – I’m proud to stand by her.”

Giant then added: “I’m grateful to the BBC and everyone involved in the show for the opportunity and the experiences I’ve had. Now, my focus is on the future.”

A BBC spokesperson previously 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.”

HuffPost UK has contacted the BBC for additional comment.