ITV Scraps Politician Plans for I’m A Celebrity Amid General Election Chaos
In a shocking twist, ITV has reportedly decided to abandon its plans to include a politician in the upcoming season of I’m A Celebrity. This comes after the strict rules surrounding the General Election have made it virtually impossible. Last season, Nigel Farage and Matt Hancock both participated in the show, with Farage securing a respectable third place. However, their appearances were met with backlash and controversy. It seems that ITV is keen to avoid a repeat of the political drama and is determined to keep things fresh by changing up the playbook.
According to an insider, the timing of the General Election has created a headache for the show’s producers. The source revealed, “It was already highly doubtful that another political type would be cast for I’m A Celeb after the backlash last time, particularly to Farage but also the kickback to Hancock. The timings of the General Election are just too much of a headache and it was the final straw.” While casting is still in the early stages, it is highly unlikely that a politician will be included in the line-up this year.
Previously, there were rumors that big names from the political world, such as former Prime Minister Liz Truss, would be joining the show. However, regulations dictate that the current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, must dissolve parliament for an election by December 17. This clashes with ITV’s usual schedule of sending celebrities into the Australian jungle in mid-November. Ofcom, the broadcasting regulator, has also warned that TV and radio stations could face fines if they breach impartiality rules during election campaigning.
The source added, “Any Westminster-type will find it impossible not to stray into politics under questioning from fellow campmates and it would be nigh-on impossible to stay neutral on air. It’s a headache they don’t need to risk, especially as there are loads of celebrities who are not MPs that want to be on the show. Producers are really excited this year by some of the big names that have already shown interest.”
One celebrity who has been tipped to star in the upcoming series is Coronation Street star Alan Halsall. Halsall was unable to participate in the previous season due to an ACL operation. His character, Tyrone Dobbs, was written out of the show as he took a break. Ultimately, Sam Thompson emerged as the winner of the series, with Tony Bellew and Nigel Farage taking second and third positions respectively.
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