I’m A Celebrity crowns ‘jungle legend’ after eventful all-star series

After a turbulent stay in the South African wilderness, actor Adam Thomas has secured the title of king of the jungle in the latest iteration of the reality TV show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! The live final, broadcast on ITV, saw Thomas emerge victorious following a series of dramatic moments that tested his resilience. His journey included clashes with boxer David Haye and footballer Jimmy Bullard, culminating in a heated argument that nearly led to his elimination before the campmates intervened.

The winner was chosen in London, despite the competition being filmed months earlier. Thomas, who previously finished third in the regular version of the show in 2016, described his experience as “one of the toughest things I’ve ever been through, physically, mentally, and emotionally.” He shared this sentiment on social media, adding that David Haye “broke me in there” and “pushed me to my limits,” while Haye apologized for calling him “weak” and “brittle-spirited.”

“He broke me in there, he pushed me to my limits, and I’ve told David this and he’s apologised and that’s that! I’ve moved on now, am not one to hold a grudge.” — Adam Thomas

Thomas’s near-exit came during a trial where the losing pair would be sent home. When Bullard opted to forfeit the challenge by shouting “I’m a celebrity get me out of here,” Thomas reacted with frustration, accusing him of jeopardizing their position. Though producers omitted his full outburst, Craig Charles noted the scene was “unbroadcastable as it was” and “deeply traumatic,” with Thomas appearing on the verge of attacking Bullard.

Meanwhile, the camp faced other challenges. Former Coronation Street star Beverley Callard had to withdraw after fainting at the Bush Telegraph. In February, she revealed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, which she linked to her time on the show. Unable to attend the final, she said she was “absolutely gutted” but prioritized recovery. Haye also sparked controversy with comments about women, including likening his girlfriend to “the personality of a proper ugly bird.”

“It was unbroadcastable as it was. It was deeply traumatic and it was really upsetting. Adam was so wound up. He was so aggressive. It looked like he was going to attack Jimmy.” — Craig Charles

Haye’s actions led to his own elimination, as he chose Gemma Collins to leave. Collins, a fan favorite, had returned after stepping away from the show 12 years earlier. Charles, too, made a heartfelt return following the sudden passing of his brother, which had forced him to withdraw from the same series. This year’s cast featured TV star Scarlett Moffatt, singers Sinitta and Ashley Roberts, and comedian Seann Walsh.