Who is Gladiators star Nitro and why is he not in series 2?

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey is one of the BBC reboot's biggest stars, but is not competing in the second series of the show.

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey as Nitro on Gladiators 2025
Gladiators star Nitro will not feature in series 2. (Hungry Bear Media Ltd/David MacCormack/BBC)

Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, also known as Nitro, was one of the biggest stars of the BBC One show's reboot. But viewers will not see him take part in series two challenges after a setback ruled him out.

The TV star had plenty of success outside of the arena in 2024, taking part in Celebrity MasterChef and the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special. But he shared disappointing news with Gladiators fans in December, saying he had to drop out of series two after injuring his knee.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Gladiators cast had a warm-up run ahead of the new series with a celebrity special that aired on New Year's Day, where Nitro briefly appeared in the changing room footage cheering on his co-stars.

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey as Nitro on Gladiators 2024
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey is a fan favourite as Nitro. (BBC)

Nitro, aka Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, had some sad news for Gladiators fans in December as he shared that he would not feature in series two of the BBC One contest because he had injured his knee.

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Aikines-Aryeetey became a fan favourite in the Gladiators cast when the show made a comeback in 2024, but while his star has continued to rise since the series one end, he won't be back in the arena this time.

The former Olympic sprinter posted on Instagram: "Speed is my thing, but sometimes life throws a curveball! During training for series 2 earlier this year, I picked up an unexpected knee injury, which means I’ll be shifting gears this series and sitting out the events.

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"But don’t worry, I’m recharging and more energised than ever! You’ll still catch me bringing the Nitro spirit to your screens, hyping up my fellow Gladiators, and keeping the energy sky-high. Bring on series 2 of Gladiators!"

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One fan commented: "Oh that’s such a shame. My fave gladiator of this era!! Im sure you will come back bigger and better!!! X"

Someone else added: "This season won’t be the same without your energy. Buuut we already know the come back will be epic and can’t wait to see you in action again!!!!!! Our fave gladiator."

Another person wrote: "Oh no! Who’s going to be the champ of The Wall?"

Aikines-Aryeetey has had a busy schedule since appearing on Gladiators – he made it to the finals of Celebrity MasterChef, and over Christmas he appeared as a contestant in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special where he danced with Nancy Xu.

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Nancy Xu in the Strictly 2024 Christmas special
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey danced with Nancy Xu in the Strictly Christmas special. (BBC)

Aikines-Aryeetey had an impressive run in Celebrity MasterChef, finishing in fourth place behind winner Vito Coppola and runners up Rochenda Sandall and Craig Doyle.

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He posted his pride at his achievement on Instagram and joked about a future career pivot: "4th place in Celebrity @masterchefuk 2024! Being able to call myself a MasterChef finalist has a nice ring to it! so from now on, put some respect on my name in the kitchen! What an incredible season, filled with amazing connections, choreographed some fantastic dances, and shared plenty of laughs over epic challenges with great friends. On to the next adventure! I’ll be available for catering, small to medium functions."

It looks as though the Gladiator has continued with his love of cooking, as he still occasionally posts videos on social media of dishes he's whipped up in the kitchen.

Aikines-Aryeetey is expected to make a full recovery from his injury and Gladiators fans are hoping to see him back competing in the future. He will still make some appearances in series two as he cheers on his co-stars and chats with them on the changing room cams after events.

Gladiators fans got a taste of what's to come in a festive celebrity special that aired on New Year's Day, where the famous contenders included Louise Minchin, Ellie Taylor, Rob Beckett and Joel Dommett.

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Now, series two of Gladiators is about to return with the first episode set to air on BBC One at 5:50pm on Saturday, 18 January.

Aside from Nitro's injury, the rest of the cast remains the same. The second series will feature some new and adapted games, while other favourite events will make a return.

Gladiators returns to BBC One at 5:50pm on Saturday, 18 January.