Dean McCullough, a radio presenter who appeared on “I’m a Celebrity” last year, has revealed the devastating impact the show had on his life, extending far beyond his elimination from the jungle.
He confessed to feeling a profound sadness watching this year’s contestants arrive in Australia, a feeling rooted in the stark contrast between his expectations and the reality he faced after leaving the show.
McCullough described a fundamental shift within himself, stating the person who entered the jungle was not the same one who returned, irrevocably altered by a torrent of online abuse.
The abuse wasn’t simply criticism; it escalated into direct death threats and malicious messages, causing significant concern among his team and prompting a report to Greater Manchester Police.
He detailed the horrifying nature of the threats, recounting messages wishing him severe illness and violent attacks, even extending to threats against his workplace and home.
Despite the darkness, McCullough found solace in the unwavering support of his fellow campmates – Coleen Rooney, GK Barry, and winner Danny Jones – who had witnessed his authentic self.
He contrasted their understanding with the public’s perception, feeling portrayed as a two-dimensional character unfairly targeted for the Bushtucker Trials.
McCullough expressed relief at the show’s recent rule change regarding the trials, acknowledging the pressure he felt being repeatedly selected during his time on the program.
An investigation is currently underway, identifying 35 accounts engaged in malicious contact, with 12 classified as aggravated malicious contact – directly involving death threats.
The experience left deep scars, a stark reminder of the hidden cost of reality television and the vulnerability of public figures to online hatred.
