As anticipation builds for the upcoming season of I’m A Celebrity South Africa, set to air on April 6, 2026, hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly are back in the spotlight. Just before the show’s premiere, McPartlin made headlines by apologizing for inadvertently revealing a spoiler, stating, “Am I saying too much? I’m sorry, ITV. There is everything, it’s on another level. It’s a must watch.” This playful admission has only heightened excitement among fans.
The new season promises to deliver a mix of nostalgia and fresh drama, featuring 12 celebrity contestants from previous seasons, including Gemma Collins, who is returning for a redemption arc after her stint in 2014. Collins’ comeback is particularly noteworthy, as Dec remarked, “She wants to change everybody’s mind. Let’s see if she can do it.” This sets the stage for potential conflict and character development.
Among the returning cast are notable personalities such as David Haye, Beverley Callard, and Sir Mo Farah, each bringing their unique backgrounds and experiences to the jungle. The series was filmed in South Africa, a location that has become synonymous with the franchise’s adventurous spirit. The first season of this spin-off aired three years prior, and the excitement surrounding this new installment reflects the show’s enduring popularity.
As viewers prepare for the live final, they will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite contestants, adding an interactive element that fans have come to love. The stakes are high, especially for older contestants like Harry Redknapp, who was crowned King of the Jungle at the age of 71, and Beverley Callard, now 68.
In addition to the returning stars, the show will also feature fresh faces like Sinitta and Adam Thomas, both of whom have expressed their excitement about the experience. Sinitta, reflecting on her past experiences, noted, “I thought doing the show would cure me of all my phobias, but it didn’t,” hinting at the psychological challenges that await contestants.
With the return of Ant and Dec, the show is poised to blend humor and drama, ensuring that audiences remain engaged. The dynamics between contestants, particularly with returning favorites, will likely shape the narrative throughout the season.
As the premiere date approaches, the buzz around I’m A Celebrity South Africa continues to grow. Fans are eager to see how the returning contestants will fare and whether they can overcome their past challenges.
Ultimately, the success of this season will depend on the chemistry between the hosts and contestants, as well as the twists and turns that the producers have in store. With Ant and Dec at the helm, viewers can expect an entertaining ride filled with unexpected moments.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the lineup or format, but one thing is certain: the return of Ant and Dec is sure to make this season memorable.