entertainment

Jungle reunion: 'i'm a celebrity' all-stars head to south africa

Published on 02/04/2026 15:37 in entertainment • Jennifer Smith

Prepare for a dose of familiar faces and intense competition – 'I'm a Celebrity.Get Me Out of Here!' is returning, but with a twist. ITV has announced 'I'm a Celebrity South Africa,' a pre-recorded all-star edition featuring some of the show's most memorable contestants. Forget the live broadcasts and grueling Australian heat; this time, the jungle challenge unfolds in South Africa.

Returning champions and fan favorites

The lineup is already generating buzz, boasting previous winner Harry Redknapp, a perennial fan favorite who captivated audiences with his charm and surprisingly adept jungle skills. Joining him are finalists like Adam Thomas and David Haye, eager for a second shot at claiming the coveted title of King of the Jungle. The collection of personalities promises a compelling dynamic, bringing a wealth of experience – and perhaps a few lingering resentments – to the South African landscape.

Unlike the traditional series, 'I'm a Celebrity South Africa' has been pre-recorded, allowing for a more controlled filming process and a potentially heightened level of drama. The change in location also offers a fresh visual backdrop, trading the familiar Australian outback for the diverse terrains of South Africa. The strategic move to pre-recording aims to deliver an uninterrupted viewing experience, free from the unpredictable elements of live television.

Release schedule and viewing details

Release schedule and viewing details

The series kicks off on Monday, April 6th at 9:00 PM on ITV1 and ITVX, with the premiere episode running for a full 90 minutes. Subsequent episodes will air most evenings, though run times will vary. Don't expect weekend broadcasts, and mark your calendars for April 24th, when the series culminates in a dramatic live finale streamed from London, where the remaining contestants will battle it out in a final Bushtucker Trial. Each episode will also be available on ITVX following its initial broadcast.

Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:

  • April 6th – Episode 1 (9:00 PM – 10:30 PM)
  • April 7th – Episode 2 (9:00 PM – 10:20 PM)
  • April 8th – Episode 3 (9:00 PM – 10:05 PM)
  • April 9th – Episode 4 (9:00 PM – 10:15 PM)
  • April 10th – Episode 5 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 13th – Episode 6 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 14th – Episode 7 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 15th – Episode 8 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 16th – Episode 9 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 17th – Episode 10 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 20th – Episode 11 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 21st – Episode 12 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 22nd – Episode 13 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 23rd – Episode 14 (9:00 PM – TBC)
  • April 24th – Episode 15 (Finale) (9:00 PM – TBC)

The return of familiar faces and the South African setting promise a fresh spin on a beloved format, and with a live finale to determine the ultimate 'King of the Jungle,' the stakes have never been higher.