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Next week we’re diving into the wild, over-the-top world of Hot Shots! Part Deux — but this week, we’re sitting down with an absolute icon of strength, grit, and ’90s TV greatness… Raye “Zap” Hollitt from American Gladiators!
Whether you grew up glued to the Eliminator, love behind-the-scenes stories from peak ’90s action TV, or just want to hear an inspiring journey from small-town beginnings to national fame, this episode is for you. Raye was one of the ORIGINAL Gladiators, and her story is incredible.
In this episode we talk about:
💥 Raye’s path from Scranton, PA to bodybuilding stardom
⚡ Becoming an OG American Gladiator and shaping the show’s early legacy
📺 Behind-the-scenes stories from the arena — training, rivalries, fans, injuries & the real Gladiator grind
🎞️ Her acting roles across TV and film throughout the ’80s and ’90s
🔥 The challenges of being a pioneer in women’s strength athletics
💫 How she’s reinvented herself and stayed connected to Gladiators fans decades later
Raye brings passion, honesty, humor, and a TON of amazing stories from the early days of American Gladiators — whether you’re a longtime fan or meeting her for the first time, you’re going to love this one.
