Posted on Mon Jan 14, 2008 at 11:36:38 AM EST in Other Sports
More on: American Gladiators, NBC, steroids, game show, television (all tags)

If you've had an opportunity to watch the souped-up new version of American Gladiators then you already know the show just isn't what it used to be. Okay, we'll just say it: it totally blows. But, don't worry, it probably won't be around much longer. After all, nothing sinks a crummy, revamped game show faster than a steroid scandal.

NBC has been testing the 12 cast members of "American Gladiators" for performance-enhancing drugs, according to a report today in the authoritative trade magazine Broadcasting & Cable.

The performers - all body builders competing in a new version of the rough-and-tumble show of the early 1990s - were all tested when they underwent their initial physicals, the magazine says.

In addition, cast members' contracts require them to submit to tests at any time during the competition.

NBC confirmed the steroid tests but declined to give any background on the policy.

It was not immediately clear why NBC thought it necessary to test the competitors for what is clearly an entertainment show - not a sporting event.

Not clear as to why they'd want to test? Are you serious? Haven't you ever heard of a level playing field? NBC doesn't want their Gladiators to have an unfair advantage against the regular Joes who compete on the show. Oh, wait, isn't that the entire point of American Gladiators?

Links:
[NYPost.com]: `Gladiators' Tested For `Roids

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