WWE Superstar The Miz (Mike Mizanin) has announced that he will be the host of the highly anticipated reboot of the iconic competition series “American Gladiators.” The new iteration of the show is being produced by MGM and will stream on Amazon Prime Video. The Miz shared the news on his social media, expressing immense personal excitement and a deep connection to the original program.
In his announcement, The Miz conveyed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m beyond excited to announce that I’m the new host of AMERICAN GLADIATORS! The 10-year-old me is absolutely SCREAMING—this show was such a huge part of my childhood.” He elaborated on the nostalgic significance of the role, adding, “I used to watch it with my dad, and being part of its return is bringing back so many amazing memories.”
The Miz extended his gratitude to the production companies involved, saying, “A huge thank you to MGM and Amazon Prime Video for trusting me with such an iconic legacy.” He also had a message for the fans eagerly awaiting the show’s return: “To the fans, we are working hard to create something truly incredible that honors the original while bringing fresh energy to a whole new generation.” He concluded his announcement with a powerful declaration, “Get ready!!! AMERICAN GLADIATORS IS BACK, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever!”
The original “American Gladiators” series was a cultural phenomenon, running in syndication from 1989 to 1996. It pitted everyday amateur contestants against a formidable cast of professional “Gladiators” in a series of unique and physically demanding challenges. The show was created by Johnny C. Ferraro and Dan Carr and became known for its larger-than-life Gladiator characters such as Nitro, Gemini, Laser, Zap, and Ice, who became household names.
The original iteration featured several hosts throughout its run, including Mike Adamle, Larry Csonka, and Joe Theismann, who guided viewers through now-classic events like “Joust,” “Assault,” “Hang Tough,” “Powerball,” “Atlaspheres,” and the climactic “Eliminator.” Its blend of athletic competition and sports entertainment spectacle captivated audiences and spawned international versions, video games, and a wide range of merchandise.
This is not the first attempt to revive the beloved franchise. In 2008, NBC launched a reboot hosted by another WWE legend, Hulk Hogan, alongside Laila Ali. That version ran for two seasons and introduced a new roster of Gladiators and updated events, seeking to capture the magic of the original for a new audience, particularly during that year’s writers’ strike which impacted television production.
The upcoming Amazon Prime Video reboot, with The Miz at the helm, aims to tap into both the nostalgia of the original and the appeal of modern athletic competition. MGM Alternative’s general manager, Barry Poznick, has referred to the new show as part of a “cultural revival” for the franchise. Reports indicate the new version will feature an “all-star cast of gladiators for the modern era,” including bodybuilders, former Division I athletes, CrossFit champions, and elite fitness trainers. Classic events like “Gauntlet,” “Hang Tough,” and “The Eliminator” are expected to return alongside brand new challenges.
The Miz, a two-time WWE Grand Slam Champion known for his charismatic personality both in and out of the wrestling ring, as well as his extensive television experience on shows like “Miz & Mrs.” and “Dancing with the Stars,” appears well-suited to host this new era of “American Gladiators.” His background in sports entertainment aligns perfectly with the show’s blend of athleticism and spectacle, promising an energetic and engaging presentation for both longtime fans and new viewers.
