John Anderson death: ‘Iconic voice’ hailed as Gladiators referee dies aged 92

Gladiators referee John Anderson has died aged 92, the TV present stated.

The Scottish sports activities coach was finest recognized for his position because the umpire within the unique ITV present, between 1992 and 2000, and the revamped short-lived Sky collection in 2008.

He additionally skilled greater than 100 Olympians, and was inducted into the Teaching Corridor of Fame in 2002.

On Instagram, the official account for Gladiators shared an announcement saying: “We’re deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of our beloved referee, John Anderson, on the age of 92.

“Our hearts exit to his family and friends. John will perpetually be remembered as the long-lasting voice that introduced us ‘Gladiators Prepared! Contenders Prepared!’.”

He would observe the introduction with a countdown, saying: “Three, two, one.”

The referee within the present BBC present which started earlier this 12 months, Mark Clattenburg, stated: “Probably the most iconic voices and can all the time be remembered.

“I had essentially the most tough process to observe him within the new collection of Gladiators and watching him hold the Gladiators inside the guidelines will all the time be with me!! Relaxation in peace legend!!”

Anderson was additionally the top coach for the Beginner Athletics Affiliation of England and Scottish nationwide coach.

He labored with Staffordshire-born race walker Lisa Kehler, Scottish Olympic runner Liz McColgan and hurdler William Sharman.

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Olympic sprinter Jennifer Stoute, who was often known as Insurgent on Gladiators, wrote: “He was the perfect. He knew find out how to make us snicker and get mad toooo. Greatest recollections.”

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Actor and bodybuilder “Rhino” Mark Smith stated Anderson’s “smile, your voice and power was second to none”.

He additionally wrote: “The true again bone of Gladiators. My deepest condolences to your loved ones.”

Jane Omorogbe, who took the Gladiators’ title Rio, stated: “This man actually modified my life in a single easy cellphone name. Perpetually grateful. Thanks for believing in one thing I couldn’t see. Absolute legend.”