Culture

Joel Dommett and Ellie Taylor Triumph in Gladiators Celebrity Champions Finale

January, 02, 2025-04:35

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Joel Dommett and Ellie Taylor Triumph in Gladiators Celebrity Champions Finale

The one-hour special featured Joel competing against comedian Rob Beckett, while Ellie tackled a series of challenges alongside former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin. Both stars faced the ultimate test of speed and strength against the Gladiators, culminating in the iconic Eliminator where they confronted their fears. Joel entered The Eliminator with a narrow half-second lead over Rob Beckett. Both contestants managed to conquer their fear of heights by successfully climbing the cargo net, but it was Joel who reached the top of the travelator first, breaking through the paper to claim the title of Gladiators Celebrity Champion.

After his victory, Joel shared with host Barney Walsh, "It was incredibly challenging; I could feel Rob right behind me the whole time. We were both terrified of that cargo net, and the fact that we both accomplished it feels like a significant achievement. It's amazing." He continued, "I've dreamed of ascending that travelator since I was nine years old. Hearing the crowd cheer as I made my way up was truly a dream come true. Thank you for having me; it has been a fantastic experience."

Meanwhile, Louise had a two-second advantage over Ellie in The Eliminator but struggled with the first obstacle, allowing Ellie to seize the lead and swing through the paper to become the champion. Upon her victory, Ellie expressed to host Bradley Walsh, "I can't believe I just accomplished that! I had such a wonderful time with Louise, and I’m really proud of myself. The physically demanding game show made a comeback on the BBC in January, 32 years after its initial launch on ITV and 16 years following Sky One's cancellation of a previous revival.

Louise provided insights into the filming process, mentioning that she sustained an injury after being kicked in the face: "I don't know who cut my nose, but there was blood." "When they are fighting you, the pain is hard to feel. However, being tackled by them feels like colliding with a brick wall. Their legs are extraordinarily powerful; they are truly formidable!" In another segment, comedian Rob shared his efforts to keep host Bradley, who presents alongside his son Barney, 27, laughing with a series of risqué jokes.

After her victory, Ellie expressed to host Bradley Walsh, "I can't believe I just accomplished that! I had such a fantastic time with Louise, and I’m really proud of myself." Following his win, Joel told host Barney Walsh, "It was incredibly tough; I knew Rob was right there the whole time." Additionally, actress Ellie, who participated in the 2022 season of Strictly, remarked that the Gladiators were far more intimidating than the judges on the BBC dance show.