Gladiators legend had to ‘sign on the dole’ after finishing filming
Gladiators legend had to ‘sign on the dole’ after finishing filming
James Crossley, the former Gladiators star known as Hunter, revealed how he was compelled to seek unemployment benefits after his initial run on the iconic series. The 52-year-old athlete first joined the show in 1993, during its original run on ITV, and became the youngest UK participant at the time.
The show, which ran until 2000, was later revived by the BBC in 2024 under the direction of Bradley and Barney Walsh. After wrapping his first season as a Gladiator, Crossley transitioned into a career as a musician and sound healer, focusing on instruments like the handpan and gongs.
However, the shift from television to a new professional path proved challenging. During the show’s second series, he faced difficulties finding work, especially in the early months following his final appearance. Speaking on the Remember Me? podcast with Maisie Adam and Scott Bryan, Crossley recounted his experience of registering for unemployment support after the ’90s series concluded.
“We thought we’d go on holiday, so we all went on holiday and visited Gold’s gym and other LA spots because we were into that lifestyle,” he explained. “Then I came back with no money left and couldn’t work because I was doing [Gladiators]. I remember signing on the dole when I’d finished filming.”
Financial opportunities began to flow as he engaged in fan events and public appearances, maintaining his character as Hunter. This comes just days after the announcement of a special reunion event featuring Crossley alongside co-stars Jet, Lightning, and Saracen.
With the third series of the BBC reboot in progress, the four original Gladiators will appear live at the Gladiators Experience event at the NEC in Birmingham. The event, running from May 1 to August 31, offers fans the chance to interact with the show’s most memorable figures through challenges and photo sessions.
Reunion and legacy
Crossley called the reunion “brilliant,” emphasizing how the show shaped his life. “I was lucky to spend my twenties competing in those iconic games,” he said. “It’s exciting to see people now stepping into that world and trying it for themselves.”
“I never imagined I’d still be a gladiator over 30 years after the show first aired,” said Saracen. “This highlights the lasting appeal and the role fitness has played in its success. Hosting this event feels like the next chapter in our legacy.”
Jet echoed the sentiment, stating: “It gives me ‘gladiatorially’ great pleasure to support and inspire all abilities through our show.”
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