I'm A Celebrity South Africa Makes Triumphant Return with All-Star Lineup
After a three-year hiatus, the highly anticipated second season of I'm A Celebrity South Africa has finally premiered on ITV. The series brings back a collection of legendary campmates who are all vying for a second opportunity to be crowned King or Queen of the Jungle. This special all-stars edition promises to deliver unforgettable moments as familiar faces return to the wilderness for another shot at glory.
Star-Studded Cast and Emotional Returns
The 2026 season features an impressive roster of memorable past contestants, including reality television personality Gemma Collins, football manager Harry Redknapp, and Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah. Fans are already speculating about which celebrity will emerge as the frontrunner for the coveted crown.
In a heartfelt teaser released by ITV, former Queen of the Jungle Scarlett Moffatt reflected on her transformative experience: "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." Her emotional statement highlights the profound impact the show has had on previous contestants.
Production Details and Live Finale Announcement
Unlike the main I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! series, the South Africa spin-off is primarily pre-recorded. However, ITV has announced a significant change for this season: the grand finale will be broadcast live for the first time ever.
The 2026 South Africa series was actually filmed in September of last year, just months before the main Australian edition returned to television. Despite production concluding over six months ago, the climactic finale scheduled for Friday, April 24 will feature live hosting by beloved presenters Ant and Dec on ITV1, STV, and ITVX.
Filming Location: Kruger National Park
I'm A Celebrity South Africa continues to be filmed at the world-renowned Kruger National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations. According to the South African National Parks website, the park was established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld and offers "a world-class wildlife experience with unparalleled diversity."
The park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including 336 tree species, 49 fish species, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, and 147 mammals. Travel guide Lonely Planet describes Kruger National Park as "so full of wonders you can't help but be wrapped up in its magic," noting that it contains all of the Big Five animals: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Previous Season Winner and Fan Reactions
The inaugural season of I'm A Celebrity South Africa aired in 2023 and featured returning campmates including Helen Flanagan, Carol Vorderman, and Joe Swash. The first series was won by musician and television presenter Myleene Klass, with Jordan Banjo finishing second and Fatima Whitbread taking third place.
After her victory, Klass expressed her gratitude: "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," with one viewer commenting at the time: "You are actually superhuman."
Series Schedule and Viewing Information
The new season of I'm A Celebrity South Africa began airing on April 6 and will conclude on April 24, spanning just under three weeks of programming. The series airs on weeknights at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with breaks during weekends.
For the first time, dedicated fans have the opportunity to attend the finale in person in London. Tickets are available through the free ticket website Applause Store, with the advertisement promising: "You are invited to join Ant and Dec as the celebrities gather for one last night to find out who will be crowned the 'I'm a Celebrity Legend' 2026! All the finalists will be in the studio, and the atmosphere promises to be truly electric as the result is revealed live on ITV1."
I'm A Celebrity South Africa continues to air at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX, bringing wilderness challenges, celebrity drama, and unforgettable moments to viewers across the United Kingdom.
