Original Gladiator star Hunter looks unrecognisable after quitting show for yoga

ORIGINAL Gladiators hunk Hunter is almost unrecognisable after quitting the exciting show for a world of wellness and yoga. 

James Crossley made a name for himself on the ITV series between 1993 to 2000, becoming one of the most popular faces thanks to his rippling muscles and flowing hair. 

The athlete even reprised his role in 2008 for Sky’s reboot of the programme but since then has been mainly focused on a different kind of exercise regime.

James, 50, has turned his back on the showbiz world of extreme sports and competitions, preferring to spend his time teaching the disciplined practice of yoga.

According to his bio at the studio he works at, the former bodybuilding champion, strongman and multiple World Record holder, decided to switch his training after a string of injuries.

And it was during a yoga retreat in Bali, Indonesia, that the strapping 6ft 3’ man-mountain became mesmerised gong baths and decided to train in the method.

Hunter was the youngest Gladiator to be recruited for the show when it launched, joining at the tender age of 19.

He also explained the show’s record breaking viewership probably had a lot to do with the fact that the show appealed to all people.

Airing on a Saturday evening, the show was one of ITV’s biggest commodities, bringing in an audience of 18 million people.

He hit the headlines after dating the show’s host Ulrika Jonsson, the relationship was strongly denied until she finally came clean in her 2003 autobiography.

After dabbling with an acting career for a few years, the star settled into the sports industry like many of his former co-stars.

As well as being a personal trainer, James also runs his own successful consultancy business, Chelsea Fitness.