Emotions ran high in the Australian jungle as Martin Kemp became the sixth celebrity to be eliminated from ITV's I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! The fallout from his departure was captured in Friday night's episode, with campmate Shona McGarty particularly devastated.
An Emotional Goodbye
After the Spandau Ballet star, 64, waved farewell to his new friends, Shona McGarty, 34, broke down in tears as she returned to camp without him. The EastEnders actress, famous for playing Whitney Dean, struggled to contain her emotion, with fellow celebrities rallying to comfort her.
In the Bush Telegraph, McGarty opened up about her bond with Kemp. 'When Martin left, I really didn’t want him to go,' she confessed. 'I know it sounds a bit weird but he really does remind me of my dad.' Her heartfelt admission highlighted the close connections formed during the 20-day stint.
Kemp's Jungle Reflections
Speaking to hosts Ant and Dec after his exit, Martin Kemp reflected on his unique experience. 'It's just a weird trip. I loved just sitting around and talking with the others,' he said. Kemp admitted he was 'not one for making new friends' but had thoroughly enjoyed the process, leaving with 'some brilliant anecdotes.'
He also addressed his son Roman's third-place finish in the 2019 series, stating he was 'glad' he didn't beat his placement. Roman Kemp reacted to his father's earlier exit with a playful social media post, but also shared a touching tribute, calling Martin 'the man I aspire to be.'
Secret Exemption and Final Trial
The episode also revealed that Martin Kemp had been secretly exempt from some Bushtucker Trials, as disclosed by presenter Vogue Williams in a live stream. However, he finally participated in one on his last day, teaming up with Tom Read Wilson for the 'Lethal Libraries' challenge.
Kemp's departure was sweetened by a reunion with his wife of 40 years, Shirlie, who had flown to Australia to meet him on the famous bridge. Former campmates had previously relayed messages that he was 'desperate' to be reunited with her.
I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! continues nightly at 9pm on ITV1, STV, ITVX and STV Player.
