Sinitta Opens Up About 'Hellish' I'm A Celebrity South Africa Experience
Bubbly 80s pop icon Sinitta has exclusively revealed that her recent stint on I'm A Celebrity... South Africa was a traumatic ordeal, with the star dramatically claiming "they tried to kill me" during filming. The age-defying singer, now 62, entered the jungle spin-off expecting producers to "go easy" on the older contestants but found the reality to be shockingly different.
'This Version Is Worse' – Sinitta's Jungle Nightmare
Speaking at the British Diversity Awards in London, Sinitta appeared fresh-faced but carried vivid memories of her challenging time in the South African wilderness. "I'm back in one piece... ish," she laughed when complimented on her appearance. "They did try to kill me in that jungle!" While contractual obligations prevent her from revealing specific details before the show airs, she confirmed producers deliberately ignored her stated preferences. "They did everything to me that I said I didn't want done. But I guess that's how it works, isn't it?"
The singer, famous for hits like So Macho and her flamboyant X Factor appearances, participated in the original I'm A Celebrity in 2011. She anticipated a gentler experience this time, especially given the contestants' ages. "You do these pre-interviews and I thought it meant it wouldn't be as bad," she explained. "Because we're older, a bit more fragile maybe. But no... it's harder. Much harder. This version is worse, and I really wasn't expecting that."
Beautiful Location But Brutal Challenges
Despite the grueling conditions, Sinitta expressed deep admiration for South Africa itself. "Oh, I loved Africa. The jungle, not so much, but Africa is absolutely beautiful," she gushed. Comparing it to the Australian jungle of her first experience, she noted, "There's no comparison. It was like paradise, with waterfalls, mountains, just extraordinary."
The physical demands pushed her to her limits. "When I look back, I can't believe I did it," she admitted. "I actually think I must be an AI, because I don't know how I got through it. If I'd known what I know now, I wouldn't have gone." She maintains a rigorous fitness routine including Pilates, which helped her endure the challenges, though she confessed, "I'm not a happy camper. I'm not into sleeping outside. Making friends with nature was really hard."
Campmate Connections and Personal Reflections
Sinitta revealed that the contestants, including boxer David Haye who started a WhatsApp group, remain in close contact. "Yes, we're all still in touch, we all chat," she confirmed. Reflecting on her personal growth between jungle experiences, she observed, "When I did it 15 years ago, I was like a child, even though I was grown. This time, I feel changed as a person."
At home, Sinitta enjoys a private relationship with her mystery partner, whom she affectionately calls "Little Harry Redknapp." She's also immensely proud of her two adopted children, Zac and Magdalena, whose godfather is her close friend Simon Cowell. Zac, 19, balances a bricklaying apprenticeship with running the popular Albert's Schloss bar near Piccadilly Circus, while Magdalena pursues a music career with a "very cool, very different" sound distinct from her mother's pop style.
Looking Ahead – Tour Plans and Family Legacy
Not one to rest, Sinitta is preparing a one-woman show combining storytelling, singing, and cabaret elements, launching at London's Vauxhall Tavern on May 1 before touring nationally. She also credits her youthful appearance to good genes from her mother, Canadian actress and singer Miquel Brown, 81, joking that she must "lie about my age when we're together" to avoid revealing her mother's true age.
As for immediate plans, Sinitta keeps it simple for the upcoming Easter holiday: "Very simple – I'll be eating lots of chocolate and going to church!" I'm A Celebrity... South Africa premieres Monday, April 6 at 9pm on ITV1, promising viewers what Sinitta describes as "the show on steroids" with producers who "really, really pushed us."
