Veteran supermodel Janice Dickinson is pursuing a substantial six-figure legal claim against ITV, alleging that a fall on the set of I'm A Celebrity... South Africa in 2023 left her with permanent facial disfigurement and nerve damage. The 70-year-old American icon is seeking around £700,000 in compensation.
The Night of the "Frightening" Fall
Legal documents filed at London's High Court by law firm Taylor Hampton present a detailed account of the incident. According to the claim, Dickinson had been given sleeping medication by an ITV-employed medic prior to the accident. The papers state this medication can cause drowsiness and impaired balance, rendering her "particularly vulnerable" when moving around at night.
The fall occurred when Dickinson got up in the early hours to use the toilet. It is believed a nightlight in the camp was not switched on, contributing to her tripping in the dark. She has since described the experience as "the most frightening night of my life." The injuries sustained were so severe she was forced to quit the 2023 all-stars series and was flown back to Los Angeles.
Career-Threatening Injuries Alleged
The lawsuit asserts that the consequences of the fall are profound and lasting. Medical evidence cited in the claim indicates Dickinson suffered permanent facial scarring, deformity, and nerve damage. The injuries are said to affect her appearance, facial movement, and sensation, and are not capable of surgical or non-surgical correction.
Sources close to the model, who brands herself as the world's first supermodel and was the face of major brands like Chanel and Dior, say the trauma is a "devastating blow." They argue the combination of the prescribed medication and the poorly lit environment directly led to the devastating accident that has impacted her decades-long career.
ITV's Response and Wider Implications
In a statement, an ITV Studios spokeswoman confirmed receipt of the letter of claim but stated the broadcaster does "not recognise this version of events." The spokeswoman emphasised that I'm A Celebrity operates with high-level safety protocols and that the welfare of contributors is the "number one priority."
She added: "We looked after Janice at the time, paid her medical expenses, flew her home to LA, and the I'm A Celebrity team were in regular contact with Janice and her representatives... until after the programme aired seven months later."
However, the case could have significant ramifications for the reality TV giant. Producers reportedly fear Dickinson's claim may trigger further action from other former contestants who endured traumatic trials. This precedent could force a review of safety measures and potentially lead to future contestants being asked to sign legal waivers to prevent similar lawsuits.
