In 2002, a radio DJ named Tony Blackburn etched his name into reality TV history as the very first King of the Jungle. The inaugural season of “I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” was a fledgling experiment, watched by an average of 7.58 million viewers as Blackburn navigated the challenges and personalities of the Australian outback.
The following year, former cricketer Phil Tufnell proved that sporting prowess could translate to jungle survival. He secured victory in 2003, famously celebrating with an ice-cold pint and becoming the first winner to be officially crowned. The season marked the last to be filmed in the summer months and lasted only fifteen days.
Just six months later, in January 2004, Kerry Katona was crowned Queen of the Jungle, signaling the show’s ascent to national obsession. This season captivated the country with the blossoming romance between Katie Price and Peter Andre, while the outspoken Johnny Rotten clashed with everyone around him. The finale drew a staggering 14.9 million viewers.
November 2004 brought comedian Joe Pasquale to the throne, though viewership dipped slightly from Katona’s peak. The season was marked by grueling Bushtucker Trials and the dramatic departures of Natalie Appleton and Brian Harvey, both overwhelmed by the challenges of jungle life.
In 2005, a surprising victor emerged: Carol Thatcher, daughter of the formidable Margaret Thatcher. Despite her mother’s controversial legacy, Carol won over the public, proving that perceptions could be overturned in the jungle. The season also saw Elaine Lordan dramatically exit after fainting twice.
The pop world entered the jungle in 2006 with Matt Willis of Busted claiming the crown. His win was overshadowed by Myleene Klass’s iconic white bikini shower, a moment that instantly became part of reality TV lore. However, ratings experienced a decline, reaching a low since the show’s inception.
Christopher Biggins, a larger-than-life personality, charmed his way to victory in 2007. A late arrival to camp, he quickly became a favorite, winning a remarkable 81% of his stars in Bushtucker Trials. Despite his popularity, ratings continued to fall.
EastEnders star Joe Swash revitalized the show’s fortunes in 2008, attracting an average of 8.78 million viewers. His win proved so popular that he became a fixture with the “I’m A Celebrity” franchise, eventually hosting its spin-off show for nearly a decade.
In 2009, TV chef Gino D’Acampo brought his culinary skills – and a winning personality – to the jungle. He secured a landslide victory with 82% of the vote, becoming the camp’s resident chef and boosting ratings once more.
2010 witnessed a true cultural moment with Stacey Solomon’s coronation as Queen of the Jungle. The season was packed with unforgettable moments, including Gillian McKeith’s dramatic faint during a Bushtucker Trial. Ratings soared to 10.36 million, marking a new peak for the show.
McFly continued their winning streak in 2011 with Dougie Poynter taking the crown. His close bond with Mark Wright captivated audiences, though the vote was the closest in years. The season also saw Freddie Starr’s abrupt exit after a severe allergic reaction.
Charlie Brooks, known for her role in “EastEnders,” narrowly won in 2012, beating Ashley Roberts by a mere 1.12% of the vote. The season was marked by drama, including Nadine Dorries’ controversial participation and Helen Flanagan’s struggles with the trials.
Westlife’s Kian Egan brought a touch of boyband charm to the jungle in 2013. He proved a consistent performer, never facing elimination and winning with 67% of the vote. The show continued to attract over 11 million viewers.
Motorbike racer Carl Fogarty dominated the Bushtucker Trials in 2014, earning every available star. His impressive performance led to his coronation as King of the Jungle, maintaining the show’s strong viewership.
Vicky Pattison, of “Geordie Shore” fame, underwent a remarkable image transformation to become Queen of the Jungle in 2015. Her win signaled a shift in public perception and revitalized the show’s appeal.
Scarlett Moffatt charmed the nation in 2016, becoming a relatable and endearing winner. Her journey was filled with hilarious mishaps, including a memorable tumble out of a canoe. Ratings climbed back up to over 10 million.
Georgia Toffolo, affectionately known as “Toff,” captured hearts in 2017, becoming the third consecutive Queen of the Jungle. Her close friendship with Stanley Johnson added to the season’s appeal.
2018 marked a return to Australia and a triumphant win for football manager Harry Redknapp. His endearing stories about his wife Sandra and his love for jam roly-polys resonated with viewers, attracting record ratings with Holly Willoughby stepping in for Ant McPartlin.
Jacqueline Jossa, known for her role in “EastEnders,” emerged victorious in 2019, beating Andy Whyment and Roman Kemp in a closely contested final. The season was filled with emotional moments and compelling storylines.
The pandemic forced a change of scenery in 2020, with the show relocating to a Welsh castle. Giovanna Fletcher was crowned Queen, continuing the McFly connection to the show’s success.
Danny Miller secured the title in 2021, marking another win for a soap star. The season was notable for Richard Madeley’s unexpected departure due to illness.
Jill Scott, a celebrated footballer, became Queen of the Jungle in 2022, marking the show’s return to Australia. The season was also notable for the inclusion of controversial politician Matt Hancock.
Myleene Klass finally claimed her crown in 2023 during the first all-stars edition, filmed in South Africa. However, the altered format didn’t resonate as strongly with viewers.
Danny Jones, another musician, was crowned King of the Jungle in 2023, continuing the show’s tradition of celebrating diverse personalities. The season saw a dip in ratings, but the legacy of “I’m A Celebrity” continues.