Who is Athena? Gladiators 2024 star and powerlifter
Athena hopes to become a role model of the next generation.
Gladiators is coming back with a bang, with the iconic gameshow returning to screens on Saturday 13th January, with all new line-up of Gladiators ready to take on some amazing challenges.
The new generation of Gladiators will go head to head against some brave members of the public, and with Bradley and Barney Walsh hosting the show – viewers are, no doubt, in for a treat.
Amongst the new line-up of Gladiators is Athena, who wanted to become a Gladiators because she wants to be a role model for the next generation.
"Coming from a diverse minority background, I've always dreamt of having a platform to inspire the next generation," Athena said.
So, what else is there to know about the powerlifter? Read on for everything you need to know about Gladiators 2024 star Athena.
Read more:
- Gladiators 2023 cast: Meet the new line-up
- Claire Sweeney not taking Coronation Street break for Dancing on Ice
Who is Athena?
Age: 26
From: Warwickshire
Height: 5ft 4in
Bicep: 36cm
Fact: Athena can lift 175kg. That's the same as 1,875 tins of soup!
Instagram: @karenjeet_bains
Karenjeet Kaur Bains's Gladiator name is Athena, which is a nod to the Greek goddess of war and wisdom.
Bains is a powerlifter and chartered accountant and as a powerlifter, she became the first Sikh woman to represent Britain in the World and European Championships. She has also won three gold and two silver Commonwealth medals.
To impress you even more, Karenjeet is a five time All England powerlifting champion and five time British powerlifting champion. She also holds the Guinness World Record for most bodyweight squats in a minute.
When asked what audiences can expect from Athena, Karenjeet said: "She's very classy yet composed, quite stoic and carries herself in a regal manner. I like to outsmart the contenders and try to be one step ahead of them, but I'll give them props if they beat me to something, that’s only fair!"
How would you sum up the new series?
"Nostalgic is definitely a good word. Our outfits are in line with the original Gladiators, but with a modern twist – I felt like Wonder Woman in mine. I would say dramatic, especially the Eliminator, you will not be disappointed.
"You will be on the edge of your seats, it’s definitely an adrenaline rush. It's as enjoyable as ever and has dramatic moments. Even I had a few of those myself, which will make good TV."
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Gladiators starts on BBC One on Saturday 13th January at 5:50pm. Looking for something else to watch? Check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide, visit our Entertainment hub for the latest news.
Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Authors
Katelyn Mensah is the Entertainment and Factual Writer for Radio Times, covering all major entertainment programmes, reality TV shows and the latest hard-hitting documentaries. She previously worked at The Tab, with a focus on reality TV and showbiz news and has obtained a BA (Hons) in Journalism.
