Ex-Gladiators star awaits sentencing for role in blackmail plot

Former Gladiators star Jefferson King – known as “Shadow” in the show – has been pictured in a police mugshot after he admitted to being involved in a blackmail plot.

The one-time bodybuilder appears gaunt and very different to his former self, having struggled with drug addiction for years.

The 59-year-old is currently in custody awaiting sentencing after admitting two charges of blackmail.

Another man, 38-year-old Simon Batson, has also admitted the same charges.

King was a popular star of the 90s ITV show, which pitted members of the public against athletes, and had a near-perfect Duel record.

He was only beaten once in his Gladiators career and was known for his incredibly muscular physique.

His career was ruined when he tested positive for steroids and was kicked off the show, at around the same time that his marriage broke down.

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At the time, King admitted he had been taking the steroids for five weeks, although denied allegations he had taken cocaine.

The former bodybuilder has spoken previously about his struggles with addiction, which started when he was in his teens.

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