Match of the Day star Guy Mowbray lands surprise new role as hit TV show returns

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The sports commentator will be calling the hard-hitting action, 31 years after the show first aired on Saturday nights – and a source said he is ‘the perfect choice’ for the role

Guy Mowbray (

Image: guy.mowbray/Instagram)

BBC bosses have got their Guy for a new version of 90s TV favourite Gladiators.

Match of the Day commentator Guy Mowbray will be calling the hard-hitting action, 31 years after the show first aired on Saturday nights on ITV. A source said: “Guy is the perfect choice. His insight and attention to detail is second to none, whilst he also brings fun and a bit of banter to the commentary booth.”

Filming on the show – rumoured to be airing later this month – has been taking place at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena in front of a live audience co-hosted by Bradley Walsh, 63, and his son Barney, 25. Guy, 51, who has been the voice of England games in major tournaments since 2010, said: “It’s an absolute joy to be the voice of such an iconic show.

“Saturday night memories will come flooding back for many, whilst it’s brilliant to think of a new generation being introduced to an all new, even more ripped group of Gladiators. They are serious athletes, as are all the contenders who’ve been bold enough to take them on.

Guy will commentate for Gladiators comeback (

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guy.mowbray/Instagram)

“The best thing is that the format is the same as it ever was – only better.” Dan Baldwin, executive producer, said: “We are delighted to have the iconic voice of Guy Mowbray onboard. Guy calls the action like no other commentator, he is top of his game. His commentary is going to add another exhilarating layer to Gladiators”.

Guy has been behind the mic for BBC Sport for the Africa Cup of Nations, European Championship, FA Cup and Premier League. In the summer of 2021, millions of viewers were hanging on Guy’s each and every word as he called the final of the Euros, live on BBC Television.

In 2008, Gladiators was resurrected for two seasons on Sky One,including three episodes that saw the new generation of Gladiators go up against some of the original lineup. International editions have also sprung up in countries such as Australia, the United States, Finland and South Africa.