BBC was warned about Gladiator star Giant’s steroid use in May but still kept him on hit family show
THE BBC was warned about Gladiators star Giant’s steroid use last May — but still kept him on the hit family show.
We told last week how the 6ft 5in muscleman, real name Jamie Christian-Johal, boasted of “phenomenal gains” in online videos.
A whistleblower, an ex-bodybuilder, said he alerted BBC producers eight months ago after hearing about Giant’s selection.
But he said bosses “brushed off” his allegations, adding: “I was surprised they were so cavalier about something so serious.
“I was motivated in ensuring kids didn’t treat him as a role model.
“It wasn’t vindictive.
“The BBC told me that professional bodybuilders take steroids and it’s not illegal. But I told her everything in great detail.
“The BBC thought about it for a day, then came back to me, asking for more information. But nothing was done.
“I was told, ‘It’s not our problem’.”
Anabolic steroids are Class C drugs that can only be issued by pharmacists with a prescription.
Users risk prostate cancer, infertility and heart attack.
Last week, Giant, 37, told us: “I stopped competing as a bodybuilder in October 2022 and responsibly came off steroids.
“I do not advocate the use of them.”
The whistleblower added: “The BBC are prats.
“They were pre-warned but still stuck him front and centre of the show.
“Giant has all that baggage and yet fronts the programme.
“Kids are going to adore him.”
We approached the BBC for comment.
Lawyers for production firm Hungry Bear Media said they were aware of Giant’s past steroid use and that he’s now a vocal critic.