After receiving widespread criticism for including certain campmates, I’m A Celebrity producers have allegedly pledged to make significant changes to the show’s future.
In recent seasons, Ant and Dec‘s bushtucker challenges have included Jamie Lynn Spears, Sam Thompson, Boy George, and Lioness Jill Scott.
However, Matt Hancock and Nigel Farage, who was apparently the highest-paid campmate ever, have both left, which disappointed spectators.
Politicians raising a stir in the jungle is nothing new; Edwina Currie and Stanley Johnson have already been on the reality show.
But that’s going to change, as executives are apparently proposing a ‘politicians ban’.
A source said: ‘In the past it’s been really interesting to see which politicians are willing to join the show, with some even serving MPs.
‘But this year, with an election looming, it doesn’t feel like the right moment for that.’
The insider told The Mirror: “Coming on top of Farage not helping to pull in the punters last year and Ant and Dec making it clear they want a change, this year it’s a case of avoid, avoid, avoid.”
‘It’s time for something different so it’s fair to say no one is seeking any controversial figures from the world of politics at this stage.’
While Hancock got third and Farage ended fourth, Ant and Dec were among those appealing for ‘a year without any politicians’.
This occurred when fans promised to boycott the concert, and comedian Katherine Ryan expressed her emotions.
She previously said: ‘I vehemently am against glorifying people like Matt Hancock and Nigel Farage and reducing them to light entertainment fodder when I think that they’re very dangerous people who have directly hurt lots of families.
‘I don’t think that’s a joke, for me, so I wouldn’t be watching. I didn’t watch last year. I take politics quite seriously.’
Lorraine Kelly and Kathy Burke were among the other celebrities who threatened to boycott the series due to their displeasure with politicians appearing on the entertainment show.
Nonetheless, I’m A Celebrity was the most viewed Entertainment show on any channel last year, with 10.7 million average viewers; however, it’s too early to predict who will enter the jungle for the 2024 season.
I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! returns to ITV later this year.
Source My Celebrity Life.
