Giant Claims BBC AXED Him from Gladiators After His Romance with OnlyFans Model Girlfriend

James Bigg, 40, took to Instagram with a cryptic statement saying he had been left 'facing a choice which did not align with his values' (pictured with host Barney Walsh)
James Bigg, 40, took to Instagram with a cryptic statement saying he had been left ‘facing a choice which did not align with his values’ (pictured with host Barney Walsh)
Jamie Bigg has been dating Taylor Ryan, 28, an OnlyFans model and aspriring comedian
Jamie Bigg has been dating Taylor Ryan, 28, an OnlyFans model and aspriring comedian
The former professional bodybuilder and firefighter has been on the show since the reboot launched in 2024

Gladiators star Jamie Bigg, aka Giant, has claimed that he was axed from the BBC show due to the broadcaster’s disapproval of his relationship with his OnlyFans model girlfriend, Taylor Ryan. The 40-year-old bodybuilder and former professional athlete made the shocking revelation just days after his departure from the popular competition show.

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Jamie and Taylor are said to be 'shocked and saddened' at the news of his axing from Gladiators

Jamie and Taylor are said to be ‘shocked and saddened’ at the news of his axing from Gladiators

Jamie, who had been part of the show since its reboot, stated that he had planned to publicly announce his relationship with Taylor, 28, when he was suddenly removed from the line-up. “I made it clear that I was planning to go public with my relationship, including the fact that my partner works as an OnlyFans creator, and shortly after that, I was told I wouldn’t be continuing on Gladiators,” Jamie said, reflecting on the unexpected decision.

It was reported in November that the bodybuilder had split from his wife, Katie (Pictured together in February 2025)
It was reported in November that the bodybuilder had split from his wife, Katie (Pictured together in February 2025)

The Gladiators veteran admitted his exit “wasn’t something I expected,” but defended his partner, calling her “an incredible person” and expressing his pride in standing by her. The couple had been discussing starting a family when the news broke, leaving them both devastated by the timing.

Jamie’s departure was accompanied by cryptic posts on his social media, where he shared that he was “faced with a choice that didn’t align with my values.” His Instagram message highlighted the conflict between his commitment to the show and his personal life. “I stand by my people and I stand by what I believe in. That’s what being a role model means to me.”

Although the BBC cited “child safeguarding” as a reason for his departure, Jamie strongly disagreed with their reasoning. Fans quickly took to social media to express their shock, with many questioning whether his personal relationship should have affected his position on the show.

The BBC later confirmed the axing, with a statement thanking Jamie for his contributions to Gladiators while also wishing him well for the future. Despite the controversy, Jamie is ready to move forward with new opportunities, stating, “This isn’t the end. It’s just the beginning.”

Jamie’s personal life has also been the subject of much discussion, as he recently revealed that he was changing his name back to Jamie Bigg, after previously being known as Jamie Christian-Johal. Following a divorce and personal struggles, including his ADHD diagnosis, Jamie is focused on reclaiming his identity and starting a new chapter.

Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/