The jungle is calling, and this year, it’s lined with some seriously impressive paychecks. As the new series of “I’m A Celebrity” prepares to launch, a fascinating picture is emerging of the financial arrangements behind the reality TV spectacle.
At the very top of the list, rapper Aitch is set to receive a staggering £250,000 for braving the Australian outback. This isn’t just about enduring Bushtucker trials; it’s a strategic move by ITV to capture a younger audience, leveraging Aitch’s massive social media following.
The financial disparity within the camp is striking. While Aitch commands the highest fee, comedian Eddie Kadi enters the jungle with a still-substantial, but comparatively modest, £75,000. Despite being the lowest-paid celebrity this year, it’s a sum that speaks to the show’s overall financial power.
Jack Osbourne, appearing just months after the loss of his father, Ozzy, is receiving £200,000. His presence adds a poignant layer to the competition, and ITV clearly recognizes the value of his story and established fanbase.
Several well-known faces fall into the £95,000 bracket, including comedy icon Ruby Wax, “EastEnders” favorite Shona McGarty, and “Emmerdale” actress Lisa Riley. These are seasoned entertainers, each bringing a wealth of experience and a guaranteed audience appeal.
Martin Kemp, of Spandau Ballet fame, is earning significantly more than his son Roman did during his 2019 stint in the jungle. A clear indication of the value placed on established names and the potential for compelling narratives.
Social media personality Angry Ginge, with his dedicated online following, is reportedly receiving around £100,000, highlighting the growing influence of digital stars in mainstream television. Former Lioness Alex Scott is also in the £100,000 range, with whispers of a potentially even larger, “closely guarded” fee.
Sources suggest ITV is particularly interested in Scott’s high-profile relationship with singer Jess Glynne, hoping for candid insights into their love story. The show thrives on personal revelations, and a celebrity romance is prime viewing material.
Looking back at previous series, the financial stakes have always been high. Last year, Coleen Rooney and Nigel Farage both earned an astonishing £1.5 million for reaching the final, cementing their places as the joint highest-paid contestants in the show’s history.
Other past earners include Noel Edmonds, Caitlyn Jenner, and Harry Redknapp, all commanding substantial fees that reflect their celebrity status and the show’s relentless pursuit of ratings. The financial investment is clear – “I’m A Celebrity” is a high-stakes game, both for the contestants and the network.
As the new series begins, the drama will unfold not just in the trials and tribulations of jungle life, but also in the unspoken dynamics of a camp populated by individuals with vastly different financial incentives. The competition is on, and the stakes are higher than ever.
