John Anderson, former ‘Gladiators’ referee, dies aged 92
Gladiators referee John Anderson has died at the age of 92.
The TV personality, who was also a sports coach who trained Olympic athletes, was well known for appearing on the ITV show during its original run in the 1990s.
Announcing Anderson’s death, Gladiators said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved referee, John Anderson, at the age of 92.
“Our hearts go out to his friends and family. John will forever be remembered as the iconic voice that brought us ‘Gladiators Ready! Contenders Ready!’.”
The referee was a well-known face on Gladiators between 1992 and 2000, and appeared in the short-lived 2008 revival. The series was revived on the BBC earlier this year, which Anderson wasn’t a part of.
Current show referee Mark Clattenburg posted a tribute to the star on social media, writing: “One of the most iconic voices and will always be remembered.
“I had the most difficult task to follow him in the new series of Gladiators and watching him keep the Gladiators within the rules will always be with me!! Rest in peace LEGEND!!”
Many more shared tributes, including Gladiators star Rhino, who wrote: “#Ripjohnanderson your smile, your voice and energy was second to none. The true back bone of Gladiators. My deepest condolences to your family.”
Throughout his career, Anderson trained athletes including Dave Moorcroft, Sheila Carey, Liz McColgan, John Graham and Judy Simpson.
“I can’t speak too highly of John,” Moorcroft said in a tribute to him (via Athletics Weekly). “He turned water into wine. At our club (Coventry Godiva) we’d never had anybody break four minutes for mile, but not only did I do it but Tim Redman, Colin Ridding and Steve James all broke four minutes.
“I don’t think any of them would describe themselves as world beaters but John just got the best out of people.”
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Sam Warner
NME
