I’m A Celebrity set to ban a certain type of famous person after Ofcom's warning

Virgin Radio

20 May 2024, 10:31

ITV's hit show faces big changes as a particular type of public facing career might be axed from the jungle lineup following Ofcom's latest guidance.

The wild world of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! is in for a seismic shift after facing a torrent of backlash and a stern warning from TV watchdog Ofcom.

The beloved ITV programme, hosted by the cheeky duo Ant and Dec, is rumoured to be ditching its plans to include another politician in the jungle mix.

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Recent series have seen a colourful array of celebs like Jamie Lynn Spears, Sam Thompson, Boy George, and Lioness Jill Scott braving the dreaded bushtucker trials.

But, let's not forget the political firecrackers—Matt Hancock and Nigel Farage—whose jungle antics sparked viewer threats of a boycott.

An inside source spilled the beans: “It was already highly doubtful that another political type would be cast for I’m A Celeb after the backlash last time, particularly to Farage but also the kickback to Hancock. They also change up the playbook every year to keep things fresh.”

Politicians have been a staple in the past, with notable names like Edwina Currie and Stanley Johnson gracing the jungle.

But it seems this time, the decision to steer clear of the political arena is final.

New guidance from Ofcom, especially with a General Election looming, has sealed the deal.

“The timings of the General Election are just too much of a headache and it was the final straw,” the insider continued to The Sun.

“Of course, casting is in its early stages and never say never, but they are extremely unlikely to go down that road.”

Ofcom has also laid down the law for TV and radio stations, warning them about impartiality rules during election campaigning.

Cristina Nicolotti Squires, Ofcom’s Broadcasting and Media Group Director, didn't mince her words: “If broadcasters want to take the risk of having a high-profile politician, who’s not standing for a seat hosting a programme, they’re going to have to work bloody hard to make sure that those programmes are duly impartial.

"And we will come down on them like a ton of bricks [if they aren’t].”

ITV, however, is keeping its cards close to its chest.

A spokesperson for the channel previously said: “Any names suggested for I’m A Celebrity are speculation.”

While Hancock and Farage managed to charm their way to third place finishes, it appears the tides are turning.

Even Ant and Dec, the jesters of the jungle, are on board with the no-politician plan.

Dec expressed his thoughts last year: “I think we do a year without any politicians,” with Ant enthusiastically agreeing: “Agreed, agreed, agreed.”

So, what’s next for our favourite jungle adventure? Will we see more pop stars, sports heroes, or reality TV icons taking on the creepy crawlies and stomach-churning challenges?

One thing’s for sure—I’m A Celebrity is about to get a whole lot more unpredictable.

Stay tuned, and get ready to shout, “Get me out of here!” as we dive into another season of jungle madness without the political drama.

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! is available to watch on ITVX.