americangladiators

I am not ashamed to say that I was a fan of the original American Gladiators back in its heyday of the late 80's and early 90's. So, I'm pretty excited that NBC is airing a new version of the program shortly after the new year begins. Granted, that excitement may fade very quickly if the producers of the show decide to muck it up royally to fit into the genre that is 21st century reality television. I mean, if they make it more like WWE than an actual competition between professional athletes and regular people, then I'll be turning the show off very quickly.

Having said all of that, it will also be up to the contestants to determine if the show will be a success or just another filler show being aired until the Writers' Strike is over in 2012. Matt over at the site AmericanGladiatorsBlog lists all of the 24 contenders that will go up against Crush, Fury, Justice, Larry and Curly.

NBC unveiled its schedule for the new year and, with scripted episodes becoming scarce, it is predictably heavier on the reality side. Joining existing shows Deal or No Deal and The Singing Bee are the returning 1 vs. 100, The Biggest Loser and The Apprentice. Returning after almost fifteen years, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan hosts American Gladiators. In it, eight "gladiators" face competition from everyday joes like you and me in a variety of physical challenges. Of course, when I say "like you and me" I mean you. Me they'd snap in half but I got a good feeling about you. I think you can take 'em. Now get in there, tiger!