Muscles & Mayhem: An Unauthorized Story of American Gladiators
In the '90s, TV's stunt-filled "American Gladiators" thrilled fans. This docuseries explores the show's success — and how it almost ended before it began.
Overview
In the '90s, TV's stunt-filled "American Gladiators" thrilled fans. This docuseries explores the show's success — and how it almost ended before it began.
Kyle McCutcheon
Creator / EP
JP Quicquaro
Producer
Episodes
1. Pilot Madness
Six athletes with camera-ready smiles and cartoonish nicknames make their debut. Critics dismiss the rowdy show as "crash TV" — but fans take notice.
2. Let the Games Begin
As injuries pile up and a risky stunt ends a star's career, producers add more Gladiators. A key player's meltdown is met with rumors of steroid use.
3. A Global Phenomenon
Gladiators merchandising explodes — but while the show becomes a ratings phenomenon, the stars themselves have little funds to show for it.
