The mother of I'm A Celebrity star Shona McGarty has given her heartfelt approval to rapper Aitch, describing him as a 'lovely boy' as rumours of a blossoming jungle romance continue to captivate viewers.
Mum's Verdict on the Jungle Pair
Jennifer, a 69-year-old retired school business manager, has been watching her daughter's journey in the Australian jungle closely. She revealed that a playful pillow fight between the pair, which saw Aitch wrap his legs around the former EastEnders actress, has been her favourite moment so far.
Speaking to The Sun, Jennifer expressed her joy at seeing Shona, 34, appearing 'happy' and 'relaxed' following her recent personal struggles and split from her fiancé, guitarist David Bracken. "I am loving it – she has relaxed into it now which obviously makes me really happy," Jennifer said. "I enjoyed the pillow fight and seeing her fun side coming out. That's what makes me happy – to see that she's being her natural self."
Blossoming Chemistry in Camp
Speculation about a potential romance between the Mancunian rapper, 25, and Shona ignited after he confessed to his campmate Angry Ginge that he had a 'soft spot' for her. Viewers have since witnessed several intimate moments, including Aitch cuddling Shona and holding her hand as they watched a trial together.
The connection seemed to intensify when they were caught gazing into each other's eyes before engaging in the now-famous pillow fight in the losers' camp, Doomsville. When Aitch wrapped his legs around her, Shona quipped, "Why are your thighs so strong?" – a moment that has set social media alight.
Family, Friends and Fans React
The chemistry has not gone unnoticed by the show's hosts or the public. Presenters Ant and Dec commented on air, with Dec noting, "Getting very cosy aren't they," followed by a smirk from Ant.
Fans have been quick to share their support online, with many suggesting Aitch deliberately lost a challenge to join Shona in the losers' camp. One fan declared, "Aitch and Shona ready for that christmas love," while another stated, "I know Aitch lost on purpose to be with Shona I just can't prove it."
The approval extends beyond viewers. Aitch's close pal and manager said the pair could make a 'nice couple', while Shona's sister Camila commented, "He is a nice guy... I would definitely have him around for Christmas."
Jennifer added her own endorsement, saying, "I think they are very similar characters. They've both got that playfulness. He is a lovely boy. We would definitely invite him over for dinner." She hinted at a potential future for the pair, suggesting they could be "great mates" and adding, "Who knows."
New Beginnings for Both Stars
The potential romance comes at a time of new beginnings for both celebrities. Aitch, whose real name is Harrison Armstrong, split from his girlfriend Lois Cottam before entering the jungle. Meanwhile, Shona recently ended her engagement to David Bracken, 38, and bravely opened up about her five-year battle with anxiety and depression.
Shona left her role as Whitney Dean on BBC One's EastEnders after 16 years in 2023 to pursue a music career. Her debut single, 'Unapologetically Me', has been released, and she has impressed both campmates and viewers with her stunning voice, belting out classics like Bill Withers' 'Ain't No Sunshine' during a storm.
I'm A Celebrity 2025 airs every night at 9PM on ITV1 and ITVX.
