BBC Gladiators fans were all left stunned as TV presenter Bradley Walsh announced who would be the referee on the new series of the famous 90s reboot. On Saturday evening fans took to social media to comment on the familiar face who was seen blowing the famous whistle.
Mark Clattenburg, a former Premier League referee who refereed the Champion’s League cup final and Euro 2016 final, entered the frame – and much to the shock of the nation – as he stepped out to take over the reins from the famous Scottish voice of John Anderson.
Fans quickly took to social media platform X at the shock of seeing the retired referee now on Saturday night TV. James Wharton put: “As if Mark Clattenburg is the referee on Gladiators.” Billy added: “Mark Clattenburg as a ref on gladiators…”
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Tom Cranmer wrote: “Mark Clattenburg refereeing on #Gladiators I don’t know why I’m shocked he always loved the camera! Adam added: “Mark Clattenburg must be desperate for some cash #Gladiators.” Kerry also wrote: “Is that Mark Clattenburg?”
Some even questioned if the former professional referee – who comes from the North East – was in Scottish. Tom said: “Who knew Mark Clattenburg was Scottish?” Kevin Astley added: “I see former football ref Mark Clattenburg is attempting a Scottish accent to sound like John Anderson.”
Jack Moseley put: “Mark Clattenburg” is a pound shop John Anderson #Gladiators Others commented on the “cushty” job. Mark Clattenburg reffing the Gladiators now.
Paddy Sisyphus: “Didn’t realise Mark Clattenburg is the referee in the BBC reboot of Gladiators. He’s been working towards this his entire life.” Ben Skipper wrote: “Love that Mark Clattenburg is the main ref on the new Gladiators. Mike Riley is seething.”
Other fans didn’t seem impressed though. Colin Newman wrote: “Mark Clattenburg is the ‘Gladiator’s ready’ referee on the new series of Gladiators. Another reason not to watch it.”
BBC Gladiators has returned to mainstream TV screens on Saturday evenings for the first time in 24 years. It had a small rebooted version on Sky in the mid Noughties but fans were excited to see the official soundtrack return with all the same format.
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