Gladiators star Apollo victim of ‘sinister’ stalker prompting BBC security fears
BBC Gladiators star Apollo has been targeted by a female stalker while filming in Sheffield, prompting a police investigation and increased security measures.
The 33-year-old television star, whose real name is Alex Gray, was reportedly left “very worried” after being harassed during the filming of the hit show’s second series.
The BBC has stepped up security arrangements after the incidents were deemed more serious than over-enthusiastic fandom, with the stalker allegedly targeting Gray at multiple locations, reports the Daily Mail.
The matter has been referred to police, though no arrests have been made at this stage.
Gray was reportedly stalked at multiple locations, including the Utilita Arena Sheffield where the show is filmed, at his rented flat nearby, and during a fan meet-and-greet event.
Speaking about the ordeal, Apollo told The Sun: “There was an incident. That’s as much as I can say, until something comes of it and there’s action taken.”
“Maybe there might not be. I’m still waiting to hear. The police are doing their thing,” he added.
A source told reporters: “The police are investigating. No one has been arrested at this stage. On one occasion a woman was particularly threatening and it was strongly felt the matter needed reporting to the police. Alex was left very worried.”
The same source emphasised that “it was decided the police should be informed as it felt like a serious case of stalking.”
The incidents were described as “more sinister than a case of over-zealous fans,” prompting immediate action from show producers.
Gray himself acknowledged the challenges of his newfound fame, stating: “It’s a little strange, a little intense sometimes. I can’t share what kind of messages I get.”
He has been known as Apollo since joining Gladiators for its revival series but her first came to prominence as a rugby player, signing with Newcastle Falcons at age 17.
He later represented England Sevens before making history as the first British rugby player to transition to American football.
Gray achieved success in the NFL, joining the Atlanta Falcons through the league’s International Player Pathway Program.
Despite the concerning incidents, a source indicated that Gray “loves the show and is throwing himself into work and all the opportunities coming his way.”
The high-intensity sports game show first aired in 1992 and returned in 2024.
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It sees four contestants – split into pairs by gender – compete in a series of physically challenging events against the show’s resident “Gladiators”.
To top the show off, the pairs then compete against their respective contestant in a one-on-one final where they are sent through to the semis.
While successful to be commissioned for a second series, the reboot faced claims it had “gone woke” by the show’s original host John Fashanu.