The Cosmic Watchdog

Police have launched an investigation after Gladiators star Apollo was reportedly stalked and harassed.

The 33-year-old, whose real name is Alex Gray, is said to have been targeted by a woman both on the set of the TV show in Sheffield and at his temporary accommodation in the city.

South Yorkshire Police said they were “aware of reports of a man in his 30s being subjected to stalking and harassment”.

A spokesperson added: “An investigation has been launched and enquiries are ongoing.”

Gray told The Sun On Sunday: “There was an incident. That’s as much as I can say, until something comes of it and there’s action taken.

“Maybe there might not be. I’m still waiting to hear. The police are doing their thing.”

The newspaper also reported that the BBC and production company Hungry Bear Media had arranged for extra “support and protection” around the Utilita Arena Sheffield and outside the rented apartment block where performers stay during filming.

Gray was previously a rugby union player for the England rugby sevens team before transferring to NFL American football.

He was among the 16 “superhumans” who joined the Gladiators line-up when the sports entertainment show was rebooted by the BBC last year.

Gladiators season two launched on BBC One last weekend after millions of viewers tuned in to the first series.

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The original American Gladiators series was broadcast in the US in 1989, with a UK version following in 1992.

The first UK show was presented by Ulrika Jonsson and footballer John Fashanu, while the reboot is fronted by father and son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh.

Gladiators was brought back on Sky between 2008 and 2009, with the first season hosted by Ian Wright and Kirsty Gallacher. Caroline Flack replaced Gallacher for its second series.

The BBC and Hungry Bear Media declined to comment.