I'm A Celeb South Africa 2026 Kicks Off with Early Camp Division
The highly anticipated All Star spin-off of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! has returned for its second series, broadcasting from South Africa with hosts Ant and Dec at the helm. This edition features a star-studded lineup including soap legend Beverley Callard, Olympian Sir Mo Farah, former King of the Jungle Harry Redknapp, and Queen of the Jungle Scarlett Moffatt, among others seeking redemption or new challenges.
Clash Erupts Between Beverley Callard and David Haye
Drama unfolded early in the premiere episode as former boxer David Haye, 45, clashed with Beverley Callard, 69, before the contestants even settled into camp. During the initial challenge, Haye's team, which included Mo Farah and Ashley Roberts, won the right to send a rival team member to Savannah Scrub—a basic camp with minimal rations. Despite suggestions from colleagues, Haye insisted on selecting Callard, citing survival tactics and implying she might be a weaker campmate due to her age.
Callard responded with visible frustration, telling Haye, "David you are going to pay for that decision" and later muttering "up yours" as she walked away. However, she also claimed to hold no hard feelings, adding a layer of tension to the camp dynamics. Hosts Ant and Dec expressed sympathy for Callard, with Ant remarking, "Poor Bev, I still can't believe David Haye sent a pensioner to Savannah Scrub."
Challenges and Team Dynamics Unfold
The episode featured several intense challenges that tested the celebrities' mettle:
- Tipped Over The Edge: In the opening trial, teams led by Ashley Roberts and Adam Thomas competed to build a star puzzle while strapped back-to-back on a tipping cliff ledge. Roberts and Farah won, sending Adam Thomas to Savannah Scrub.
- Unlucky Lodges: David Haye and Scarlett Moffatt faced off in a snake-infested cabin, searching for a key among 50 wrong ones, heightening the competitive atmosphere.
Other notable moments included the arrivals of comedian Seann Walsh and singer Sinitta, who joined the camp with humorous quips about the experience. Fans on social media already expressed excitement for Gemma Collins' entry, despite her not yet appearing, highlighting her popularity from past seasons.
Contestant Lineup and Background Details
The full roster of celebrities for this series includes:
- Mo Farah
- Scarlett Moffatt
- Seann Walsh
- Adam Thomas
- Craig Charles
- Ashley Roberts
- Harry Redknapp
- Beverley Callard
- Sinitta
- Jimmy Bullard
- Gemma Collins
- David Haye
This series was filmed in September 2025, meaning most events are pre-recorded, with only the final scheduled for live broadcast on 24 April 2026, where viewers can vote for the ultimate Jungle Legend. The first series in 2023 was won by Myleene Klass, who received a wooden sceptre and flower crown as prizes.
Fan Reactions and Schedule Concerns
As the show aired with a 9 PM start time, some fans voiced complaints about the late finish, suggesting ITV consider an earlier slot to accommodate viewers' bedtimes. Social media buzz also centered on potential behind-the-scenes drama, with reports that Sinitta and Gemma Collins threatened to quit after a prank by Harry Redknapp, though it was later revealed as a joke.
Additionally, Beverley Callard's participation comes amid personal challenges, as she recently disclosed a breast cancer diagnosis, adding an emotional layer to her jungle journey. Meanwhile, David Haye's return stirs memories of his 2012 stint, where he finished third and became known for his shower scenes.
The series promises more excitement as campmates navigate trials, alliances, and conflicts in the quest for the Jungle Legend title, with Ant and Dec guiding the action from their helicopter vantage point.
