Jimmy Bullard Risks Wrath of I'm A Celeb Stars with Prank Plans
Footballer Jimmy Bullard is poised to stir up chaos on I'm A Celebrity All Stars as he joins the camp with Harry Redknapp, completing the full South Africa line-up. The former Premier League star, 47, has vowed to shake things up as a late entry, promising to unleash a series of pranks on his fellow celebrities.
Bullard's Prank Philosophy and Camp Dynamics
On his intention to play pranks, Jimmy Bullard explained: "I'm A Celebrity is a very similar scenario to being in the changing room – and it brings the devil out in me! When I did the jungle in Australia, I loved having a laugh playing some pranks and messing around like kids. That's what I loved most about it and I was always playing up! I've always done it in changing rooms too and so now this time around, I am sure it will naturally happen because I'm always going to look to have a laugh and wind people up!"
Bullard hopes to improve on his first appearance in Australia in 2014, where he was eliminated first despite being a favourite to win. He reflected: "My last time I was there I finished stone cold last because I came out first, so it's flattering that I didn't get forgotten. It's nice to have another bash at it, but it was tough last time and I know the trials are going to be tough again!"
Fears and Preparations for South Africa
Despite his playful attitude, Bullard admitted lingering fears: "I was scared of lots of things and I still am fearful of snakes. Doing I'm A Celebrity... did not cure me of any of my phobias!" However, his previous experience in the Australian jungle may offer some advantage for his return in South Africa. He added: "I feel a little bit more prepared because you understand what is coming but I have been watching it year after year, and the trials just seem to get tougher! I am still scared of snakes and spiders too and I am apprehensive about what is going to happen. You could be jumping out of a plane before you know it or getting chucked in a box full of snakes! But I signed up for this, so I am looking forward to getting started."
Camp Conflicts and Career Impact
Reports suggest viewers will see Jimmy Bullard clash with Adam Thomas during a row in camp. Reflecting on the challenges of camp life, Bullard said: "I learnt that when you are in the camp, it can be difficult because you are with 11 other people you don't really know. You don't want to rub people up the wrong way. But I did have a lot of fun whilst I was there and it was amazing how bonds form. You get close to the other celebrities so quickly."
Honestly assessing the show's impact, Bullard acknowledged it boosted his career post-football: "It's weird because ever since I did the programme, a lot of families have come up to tell me they watched it. In the past, it was always lads as I obviously used to play football. I don't think I would have had some of the gigs I have had were it not for I'm A Celebrity... I co-presented Soccer AM for seven years and you do question yourself whether you would have had gigs like that if you hadn't done the jungle. I'm always in front of the camera now with my golf YouTube programme. My life has definitely changed (for the better) post I'm A Celebrity..."
I'm A Celebrity... South Africa airs weeknights at 9pm on ITV1.
