Nitro. Turbo. Laser. Lace. Zap. Gemini.
These were the names that struck fear into the competitors on American Gladiators, the reality competition that tested athlete's mettle against each other and the titular and aforementioned "Gladiators," testosterone-fueled titans with biceps bigger than most people's thighs. Regular Joes competed in various games of strength of speed, with the winner walking away with cash and some fresh bruises.
The original program ran from 1989 to 1996, but NBC recently announced that it would be reviving the brand next year. While it's unclear if we'll be seeing another Nitro or Gemini, one thing does seem to be set in stone--the host.
In what appears to be a match made in heaven, Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Bollea) is in final discussions to sign on as the show's emcee, says TVWeek.com. Hogan is best known as one of fan favorites from the heyday of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where he suplexed, slammed, and clotheslined "bad guys" like The Iron Shiek, Nikolai Volkoff, and Mr. Perfect. The perma-tanned one has managed to retain his celebrity from his professional wrestling days, thanks in large part to his VH1 reality show Hogan Knows Best.
The new American Gladiators will reportedly add special effects, competitors' backstories, and water skills. TVWeek also says that the producers are in talks with former professional athletes to be the show's gladiators, a la Spike TV's Pros vs. Joes. American Gladiators is planned for a run sometime this midseason.
Comments (10)
Can't wait for American Gladiators to return. I'm going to be in LA during their tapings so I think I'm gonna have to check it out.
Great, just great, a WWE Hall of Famer is hosting it after his show, Hogan knows Best. What happened with Vh1? Did they not renewal another season or what?
Another show I'll never watch...
If the play their cards right, they should contact some of the former American Gladiators such as Raye Hollitt, aka Zap, or Dan Clark, aka Nitro. They would definately be a better choice than Hulk Hogan would be. Those 2 at least know about the show and would actually be able share their experiences about it.
I love Gladiators and Hulk Hogan is awesome! Should be very interesting!
Oh man I hope I can go back in time and enjoy it at 35 as I did with 18...
This show rocks! I still watch American Gladiators on ESPN Classic!
What you gonna do when Hulkamania runs WILD on YOU!
I watched the UK version as a kid and loved it so I can't wait to see this when it comes out!
sounds interesting. I always liked Gladiators.