I'm A Celebrity South Africa Final: Live Show Details and Voting Guide
After a three-year hiatus, I'm A Celebrity South Africa has made a triumphant return to ITV for its second season, premiering on April 6, 2026. This all-stars edition features a lineup of legendary campmates, including Gemma Collins, Harry Redknapp, and Sir Mo Farah, all vying for a second chance at the coveted King or Queen of the Jungle title. In a teaser released by ITV, former Queen Scarlett Moffatt reflected on the show's impact, stating, 'Doing this show changed my life. I went in there, and I was 25. I'm a mum now, I'm getting married, and to do this, it just feels really full circle.'
Is the I'm A Celebrity South Africa Final Live?
Unlike the main I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! series, the South Africa spin-off is predominantly pre-recorded, with filming completed in September 2025. However, ITV has introduced a groundbreaking twist: the grand finale, scheduled for Friday, April 24, 2026, will be broadcast live. Hosted by Ant and Dec, this live event will air on ITV1, STV, and ITVX, marking a first for the franchise. Fans have expressed confusion online, with comments like 'How are #ImACeleb gonna have a live final when this was all filmed at the end of last year?' highlighting the unique production approach.
How Does the Live Final Work?
Despite the series being pre-recorded, the ending was not filmed in advance. ITV has kept the finale under wraps, with details closely guarded. Key elements include:
- Public Attendance: Fans can attend the final in person in London through the Applause Store website.
- Hosts and Cast: Ant and Dec will host, and all finalists are expected to be in the studio, though it's unclear if the entire cast will participate.
- Winner Selection: The finalists do not know the outcome, as the winner will be determined by a public vote during the live episode.
Voting Details for I'm A Celebrity South Africa 2026
Voting for the winner is open during the live final, but unlike previous seasons, viewers cannot vote for finalists. Since the season is pre-recorded, the public does not influence Bushtucker Trials or eliminations; instead, these decisions are made by the celebrities themselves based on challenge performances. This shift has sparked discussions among fans about the show's dynamics.
Filming Location and Cast Insights
The series is filmed at Kruger National Park in South Africa, renowned for its biodiversity. According to South African National Parks, the park boasts 336 tree species, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, and 147 mammals, offering a world-class wildlife experience. Lonely Planet describes it as 'so full of wonders you can't help but be wrapped up in its magic,' with all Big Five animals present. Ant and Dec, despite social media posts suggesting otherwise, are believed to be back in the UK, having recorded their commentary during the 2025 filming.
Series History and Schedule
The inaugural season in 2023 was won by Myleene Klass, who said, 'You can't do it alone... I am blown away at the friendships I've come away with.' Fans celebrated her as a 'deserving winner.' The 2026 season airs from April 6 to April 24, spanning just under three weeks, with episodes broadcast on weeknights at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX, excluding weekends. This condensed schedule adds to the anticipation for the live finale.
