RTL and Prime Video revive physical game show “Gladiators – Die Show der Giganten”

Prime Video and German broadcaster RTL are launching a revival of the 1990s “American Gladiators” format under the title “Gladiators – Die Show der Giganten”. The series debuted on Prime Video on 6 August 2026 and will begin airing on RTL from 4 September. Filmed in a large Messehalle in Düsseldorf, the programme pits ordinary contestants against a team of professional athletes – the “Gladiators” – who use nicknames such as “Laser”, “Giant”, “Hammer” and “Dynamite”. The show emphasizes raw physicality, reflecting a broader trend toward “sweat TV” in an era dominated by AI‑generated content.

The revival follows other physical‑competition formats popular in Germany, including “Ninja Warrior Germany” and “7 vs Wild”. RTL cites previous success with similar productions and expects the new series to attract a sizable live audience, offering an “arena‑feel” experience both on‑screen and in‑venue.