Why is Gladiator Giant Changing His Name Back to Bigg?

Jamie Christian-Johal, known as Giant on the BBC's rebooted Gladiators, has announced he will revert to his original surname, Bigg, as part of a personal transformation following a divorce and an ADHD diagnosis. This decision comes as he seeks to reclaim his identity and move forward with transparency in various aspects of his life.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Jamie Bigg, previously known as Jamie Christian-Johal, is making headlines following his announcement on social media regarding his name change. The 40-year-old bodybuilder and firefighter has gained popularity as a contestant on Gladiators since its revival in 2024, where he portrays the character Giant. Bigg expressed that his decision is motivated by a desire to reclaim his identity after years of feeling overshadowed by his persona on television and the impact of personal challenges in his life.

Key takeaways

Jamie Christian-Johal will revert to his birth name, Jamie Bigg, in 2026.
The name change is linked to his divorce and ADHD diagnosis.
Bigg aims to rediscover his identity and promote transparency in his life.
He is known for his impressive physique and dedication to fitness.
The announcement has resonated with fans, highlighting personal growth and self-acceptance.

Timeline: how we got here

Jamie Bigg's journey to reclaiming his name has been shaped by significant personal events over the years:

1983: Jamie Bigg is born in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.
1987: His mother marries, leading to the name change to Johal.
2024: Bigg appears on the rebooted Gladiators, becoming a fan favourite.
2023: Diagnosed with ADHD, prompting a reevaluation of his identity.
2026: Plans to officially revert to his birth name, Jamie Bigg.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Jamie Bigg's announcement about changing his surname signifies a new chapter in his life. He has openly shared his experiences, including his struggles with ADHD and the emotional toll of his divorce, which have led him to seek a more authentic identity.

What was already established

Before this announcement, Jamie was primarily known for his role on Gladiators and his remarkable physique as a bodybuilder. He has been open about his fitness journey and the challenges he faced while transitioning from a professional athlete to a television personality.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Bigg's transformation may resonate with many UK viewers, especially those dealing with identity issues or mental health challenges. His candidness about ADHD could foster greater awareness and understanding of the condition, encouraging others to seek help and embrace their true selves.

Businesses and jobs

As a public figure, Jamie's name change and openness about his journey can impact the fitness industry and media representation. Brands aligned with mental health and fitness may find opportunities to collaborate with him, promoting positive messages about self-acceptance and personal growth.

Policy and regulation

Bigg's discussions surrounding mental health, particularly ADHD, could contribute to ongoing conversations about mental health awareness in the UK. His platform may help advocate for better support systems for individuals dealing with similar challenges, influencing policy discussions in the health sector.

Numbers that matter

6ft 5in (1.96m): Jamie's height, which contributes to his strong presence as a Gladiator.
52cm: The size of his biceps, reflecting his dedication to bodybuilding.
10,000 calories: The amount he consumes daily to maintain his physique.
40: Jamie's age, marking a significant milestone in his life and identity journey.
2026: The year he plans to officially revert to his birth name.

Definitions and jargon buster

ADHD: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting attention and behaviour.
Bodybuilder: An athlete who engages in intense training and dieting to achieve a muscular physique.
Gladiators: A television competition series featuring contestants competing in physical challenges against professional athletes.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, expect Jamie Bigg to continue sharing insights about his journey on social media, potentially inspiring others facing similar challenges. His visibility on Gladiators may also increase as he prepares for his name change.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As he approaches the official name change in 2026, Jamie will likely focus on building his brand around mental health and fitness. Collaborations with mental health organisations or fitness brands may emerge as he seeks to advocate for transparency and authenticity.

Signals to watch

Updates on Jamie's social media regarding his journey and upcoming projects.
Increased discussions about ADHD and mental health in the media, potentially influenced by Bigg's advocacy.
Potential partnerships with brands promoting fitness and mental health awareness.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow Jamie Bigg on social media for updates on his journey.
Engage in conversations about mental health and seek support if needed.
Explore fitness goals with a focus on personal well-being.

Don’t

Ignore the importance of mental health in personal development.
Feel pressured to maintain a public persona that doesn’t reflect your true self.
Overlook the significance of seeking help and guidance during challenging times.

Checklist

Assess your personal goals and identity.
Consider how mental health impacts your life and seek resources.
Stay informed about fitness and health trends that suit your lifestyle.
Follow positive role models who advocate for authenticity.
Engage in community discussions about mental health and fitness.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Jamie Bigg's journey of self-discovery is inspiring, it is essential to recognise that personal transformations can be complex and multifaceted. There are uncertainties regarding how his public persona will evolve and how audiences will respond to his name change and advocacy efforts. Additionally, the impact of his ADHD diagnosis on his personal and professional life may vary, and it is crucial to approach these discussions with sensitivity and understanding.

Bottom line

Jamie Bigg's decision to revert to his birth name is a powerful statement of self-identity and personal growth. As he navigates this transition, he aims to foster transparency and encourage others to embrace their true selves. His journey may inspire many in the UK and beyond to reflect on their identities and the importance of mental health awareness.

FAQs

What is Jamie Bigg known for?

Jamie Bigg is known for his role as Giant on the BBC's Gladiators and his background as a professional bodybuilder and firefighter.

Why is Jamie changing his name?

Jamie is changing his name to reclaim his original surname, Bigg, after experiencing personal changes, including a divorce and an ADHD diagnosis.

How tall is Jamie Bigg?

Jamie Bigg stands at 6ft 5in (1.96m), which contributes to his impressive presence as a competitor on Gladiators.