Celebrity Hunted returned to Channel 4 for a new series, but some viewers were quick to question the authenticity of the opening helicopter chase scene.
Helicopter scene sparks debate
In the first episode, celebrities flew into their starting point in helicopters while being pursued by the Hunters, who shouted: "You must land immediately!" and "Land now, land now!" However, some viewers suggested the scene was staged, pointing out that flight plans would have been submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) weeks in advance.
One viewer posted on X: "Has there ever been a more set up show. As if the flight plans for these 3 helicopters weren't submitted to the CAA weeks ago and are all flying at the legal mandated speed, height and distance between them in London." Another added: "Obsessed with how fake this is now."
Viewers question flight path details
Another viewer questioned the geography, noting: "Hang on... heading east when the lone heli stops the pair but that looks suspiciously like Westminster Bridge under them even though they've just flown over the city..." Someone else simply described the show as "staged."
Despite the criticism, other fans expressed their enjoyment, with one writing: "Great start, some really interesting fugitive pairings." Another said: "Looking good so far, so full on."
Celebrity lineup and premise
The series, in aid of Stand Up To Cancer, features a mix of celebrities including Strictly's Amy Dowden, EastEnders' Brian Conley and his daughter Lucy, Love Island contestants Chris Taylor and Toby Aromolaran, TV personalities Scarlette and Stuart Douglas, JJ Chalmers, Sophie Morgan, Jen Brister, and Laura Smyth.
The synopsis reads: "For 14 relentless days they must stay hidden, think fast and trust no one because the moment they leave a trail, the hunt is on. Pursuing them is Ray Howard and his elite team of Hunters drawn from policing, military and intelligence backgrounds. They have the full arsenal of the modern state at their disposal including CCTV, ANPR, Facial Recognition, helicopters, drones, search dogs, cyber investigations and media appeals. Every clue, every sighting and every mistake can mean a capture."
Celebrity Hunted airs on Channel 4.
