When I was a young teen, I loved watching American Gladiators. The crazy obstacles and challenges that contestants were made to do was unlike any other game show that was on the air and made The Price is Right look like a mandatory requirement for a senior citizens itinerary. Although back then the gladiators were mostly tacky, muscle bound, side show rejects with names like Nitro, Zap and Laser, it made for some oddly entertaining and thoughtless television.

Fast forward 17 years later and you have the exact same thing - just with water. American Gladiators returned to TV a few weeks ago and as hokey as it was back then, almost 2 decades later, it hasn’t slipped a rung down the ladder of ridiculousness. Although I am presuming the new iteration of AG is a limited deal, with the writers strike and all, it is still refreshing to turn on the channel and know that you are getting exactly what you were expecting. Mindless, cornball, over the top, plain and simple fun.

Not some show – that seems to be the norm these days - where the producers drown them in alcohol to make it more interesting or where people harass each other, trying to make other people look bad or act all belligerent in hopes of getting their own TV show. No, AG is nothing more than monstrosities of men and women competing against semi-above average joes and janes that have some inner issues to prove to themselves, but all the while doing it with respect and common courtesy.

But that’s what it has always been about and there is not one iota that has changed from its original game plan. It would be scary to think that 17 years ago, AG was ahead of its time, but it really feels that way. Perhaps the only down fall I can find in the remaking is the addition of Hulk Hogan as the announcer as opposed to a suit and tie commentator of the old days, but that’s hardly a gripe... Brother!

If you haven’t checked out the new American Gladiators, do yourself a favor and give it a go. Just remember to check your attitude at the door and keep in mind that it is all in good fun and being hokey and cheesy is what made it so great to start with.

P.S I love you Crush.

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