Katie Price poised to make a comeback on ‘I’m A Celebrity’ as show executives feel apprehensive about her return

 

There are whispers circulating that Katie Price may be poised for a comeback on ‘I’m A Celebrity’. The 45-year-old former glamour model gained fame back in 2004 during the ITV reality show’s third season, where she crossed paths with her eventual husband, pop singer Peter Andre. Her second stint on the show in 2009 was short-lived as viewers consistently chose her for every trial, prompting her departure after just a week.

Despite harbouring a desire to return to the jungle for quite some time, show executives have consistently rebuffed her. Nonetheless, there are murmurs suggesting that ITV bosses are contemplating a return for the mother-of-five, potentially offering her a spot in the forthcoming second All Stars season of the show.

The spin-off, ‘I’m A Celebrity: South Africa’, is anticipated to make a comeback in 2024. This pre-recorded series witnesses celebrities returning to camp in a bid to claim the jungle crown. Unlike the Australian filming series, the viewing public is unable to participate as the show is recorded months prior to its airing and does not involve public voting.

An insider confided in The Sun, stating, “There were concerns among the bosses about casting Katie in the initial All Stars edition. They aimed to opt for safer choices, individuals less likely to spark controversy. However, although the show garnered decent ratings prompting a second run, it didn’t resonate as strongly as the regular show. Many viewers were not keen on the pre-recorded format or the absence of public voting.”

“The intention this time is to create a bigger impact by reintroducing some of the more polarising figures from I’m A Celeb history. Katie ranks high on their wishlist. Whether admired or disliked, she remains a topic of discussion – precisely the kind of captivating element absent in the previous South Africa series.” Daily Star has sought comment from ITV.

The inaugural season of I’m A Celebrity: South Africa aired from April to May this year, having been recorded in September and October 2022. Myleene Klass emerged victorious in this series, having previously participated in the show’s sixth season back in 2006, where she secured the second position.

The show initially garnered substantial viewership, attracting over six million viewers for its premiere. However, this audience dwindled to fewer than five million by the finale, prompting criticism from many viewers for the absence of audience voting. In stark contrast, the latest primary season of I’m A Celeb commenced with over 10 million viewers at its launch and concluded with more than eight million viewers for the finale. Despite this, the finale’s viewership was deemed disappointing in comparison to previous seasons.

A reliable source divulged further exciting plans for jungle antics, stating, ‘The production team believes there’s ample room for expansion. With over 200 former campmates available, they’re considering potential themes like all-male casts, villainous characters, or iconic figures known for their jungle shower exploits.’

“While initially conceived as a standalone venture, discussions regarding its potential return have just commenced. ITV aims to safeguard the format for future use. However, it won’t be an annual event but rather a format to revisit periodically.