In a thrilling development for fans of the iconic TV show Gladiators, a new unofficial podcast titled Contender Ready has hit the airwaves. Hosted by award-winning comedian Jessica Fostekew and British Olympic medalist and weightlifting champion Emily Campbell, this podcast promises to reignite the nostalgia of the beloved series while adding fresh humor and insightful commentary. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting launch.
About Contender Ready
Contender Ready is the ultimate podcast for fans of Gladiators, blending comedy, sports expertise, and a deep love for the show. Each week, Jessica and Emily delve into an episode of Gladiators, highlighting the most hilarious, dramatic, and awe-inspiring moments. With their unique perspectives, they aim to entertain listeners while celebrating the enduring legacy of the show.
Meet the Hosts
- Jessica Fostekew: Known for her razor-sharp wit and passion for physical education, Jessica brings a lifelong love for Gladiators to the podcast. A celebrated comedian, she has graced shows like QI, Live at the Apollo, and Travel Man. Her critically acclaimed Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated show, Hench, was adapted into the BBC Radio 4 series Sturdy Girl Club, exploring women in “unladylike sports.”Jessica shared her excitement about the podcast: “OH MY GADDDDD, this podcast is my dream come true. I loved Gladiators so much as a child, and the new series is incredible all over again. For the love of jokes and PE and drama and danger – it’s the perfect combination of things! This contender is SO READY!”
- Emily Campbell: As the most successful British weightlifter of modern times, Emily brings a wealth of athletic experience and insight. A Commonwealth and four-time European champion, she’s also a double World and Olympic medalist. Emily’s connection to the Gladiators world runs deep, having competed alongside many of the current team during her career.Emily expressed her enthusiasm, saying: “It’s been a dream of mine to co-host a podcast, and I absolutely love Jess. I can’t wait for all the laughs we’ll have together whilst dissecting the iconic TV program that is Gladiators! I know a fair few of the current Gladiators from their sporting days, so it’s great to see how they get on against all the brave contenders.”
Podcast Highlights
- Episode Reviews: Each episode of the podcast will focus on a Gladiators episode, analyzing its most unforgettable moments.
- Guest Appearances: Expect engaging discussions with notable guests from the worlds of comedy and sports. Confirmed guests include Josh Widdicombe and Gladiators Celebrity Special contenders Rob Beckett and Ellie Taylor.
- Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Both hosts bring unique perspectives—Jessica with her comedic flair and Emily with her deep understanding of athletic psychology—offering listeners an unmatched commentary experience.
Why Fans Should Tune In
- Nostalgia Meets Fresh Perspectives: Relive the excitement of Gladiators while enjoying fresh takes from two dynamic hosts.
- Expert Analysis: Emily’s insider knowledge of competitive sports adds depth to the commentary.
- Laughter Guaranteed: Jessica’s comedic brilliance ensures that every episode is packed with humor.
- Exclusive Guests: Hear from stars who share their love for the show and recount personal experiences related to sports and Gladiators.
Launch Details
The podcast kicks off with two special episodes:
- Thursday, January 16: A recap of Gladiators series one.
- Friday, January 17: A review of the Gladiators Celebrity Special ahead of the highly anticipated series two premiere on Saturday, January 18.
Subsequent episodes will drop every Monday starting January 20 on major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Emily Campbell: A Force to Reckon With
Emily’s athletic credentials are unparalleled. As a Commonwealth champion and an Olympic medalist, she’s a trailblazer in British weightlifting. Her competitive experiences with half of the Gladiators team add an insider’s perspective, making her commentary insightful and relatable.
Jessica Fostekew: Comedy Meets PE Enthusiasm
Jessica’s love for Gladiators stems from her childhood, and her passion shines through in every episode. Her background in comedy and her advocacy for women in sports make her an exceptional co-host.
What Makes Contender Ready Stand Out?
- Dynamic Duo: Jessica’s humor paired with Emily’s expertise creates a perfect balance.
- Celebration of PE and Sports: The podcast celebrates physical education and athleticism in an entertaining format.
- Broad Appeal: Whether you’re a longtime fan of Gladiators or new to the series, this podcast offers something for everyone.
Get Ready to Listen
Don’t miss the chance to relive the glory of Gladiators with Contender Ready. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform to stay updated on new episodes.
