Soap icon Shona McGarty is trading the familiar surroundings of Albert Square for the unpredictable Australian jungle. The acclaimed actress, best known for her long-running role in EastEnders, has been confirmed as a contestant for the highly anticipated I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! 2025 series.
From Walford to the Wilderness: Who is Shona McGarty?
Born in London in 1991, Shona McGarty's journey to stardom began in amateur theatre after she studied at Loreto College in St Albans. Her big break arrived in 2008 when she was cast in the BBC's flagship soap, EastEnders.
She was introduced to viewers as Whitney Dean, the daughter of Bianca Jackson's (played by Patsy Palmer) deceased partner. McGarty quickly became a fan favourite, portraying Whitney through countless dramatic storylines for an impressive 16 years.
A New Chapter After EastEnders
In 2023, it was announced that McGarty would be leaving the soap, with her final scenes airing in 2024. Her participation in the 25th series of I'm a Celebrity marks her first major television appearance since her departure from Walford.
Beyond her acting career, McGarty has also showcased her vocal talents. She was part of a group of celebrities who released the charity single Rock With Rudolph in 2018. The project, known as The Celebs, returned in 2021 with a performance of a version of the classic song Let It Be.
What to Expect from I'm a Celebrity 2025
As McGarty prepares to face bushtucker trials and campfire challenges, she will be vying to win the hearts of the British public. The 2025 series promises its usual mix of drama and entertainment as a new batch of celebrities tests their mettle in the jungle. Fans of the star will be eagerly watching to see if she can be crowned the next Queen of the Jungle.