Gemma Collins Delivers Brutal Assessment of David Haye Amid Celebrity Camp Bullying Controversy
Reality television star Gemma Collins has launched a scathing critique of fellow campmate David Haye during an appearance on I'm A Celebrity: Unpacked, directly addressing the ongoing bullying allegations that have dominated discussion of the All Star South Africa series. The controversial spin-off, which was filmed in September 2025, has seen tensions escalate between several high-profile participants.
Collins Questions Haye's Boxing Credentials During Candid Discussion
During her appearance on the companion show alongside host Sam Thompson and fellow guest Carol Vorderman, the former TOWIE star did not hold back when discussing the former heavyweight champion. "David used to lose a lot," Collins remarked pointedly. "That concerns me. I've got to say, there was a moment in there when I thought 'How is he a heavyweight champion? Bless you David, and you keep losing, hun.'"
Collins elaborated further on her observations, suggesting that Haye's competitive history might have influenced his behavior within the camp environment. "Do you know what I mean. I think maybe that got to him. But again, that just shows you we're all human," she added, offering a tempered perspective despite her critical comments.
Addressing the Adam Thomas Conflict and Bullying Allegations
The discussion inevitably turned to the much-publicized clash between David Haye and Waterloo Road actor Adam Thomas, which numerous viewers have characterized as bullying behavior. The conflict intensified when Thomas, feeling unwell, expressed reluctance to participate in an upcoming trial. Haye responded dismissively, branding his fellow campmate "useless" within earshot of others.
Gemma Collins revealed her protective instincts toward Thomas during these tense moments. "I think David Haye might have seen a weakness in Adam," she analyzed. "There were times where I had to protect Adam in there. If I was going full GC mode on David Haye, and a lot of them, then it would've been a disaster in there but I had to remain calm and composed."
The reality star described employing subtle physical cues to defuse situations, explaining: "I think the fact that I stretched my arms out, I'm sort of saying to 'em all, without biting their heads off, 'enough'." Collins made it clear she was prepared to escalate her response if necessary, stating defiantly: "Well, basically, I knew if it was ever gonna get too bad I would be taking David on. You know, bring on the next heavyweight champion fighting the world. Because if I feel that something's too much, I'm not afraid to step up."
Viewer Backlash and Additional Controversies Surrounding Haye
The public reaction to David Haye's conduct has been overwhelmingly critical, with social media platforms flooded with accusations of bullying. One viewer expressed their dismay online: "David really needs to go – that was not banter, that was bullying. I’m sorry but it was. Don’t like it." Another comment echoed this sentiment: "David Haye, what a bully. Times like this he should be chucked out for being a d***head." A third viewer questioned the production's response: "How has David not been removed for bullying yet?"
This is not the first controversy involving the former boxing champion during the South Africa series. Earlier episodes saw Haye branded a "misogynist" after making controversial comments about dating women with what he described as "the personality of a proper ugly bird." He attempted to clarify that he meant less conventionally attractive women often develop better personalities, but the explanation did little to quell criticism.
Additional complaints have been leveled against Haye for allegedly fat-shaming Gemma Collins and for his decision to send fellow contestant Beverley Callard to the inferior Savannah Scrub camp at the series' outset. Callard herself confronted Haye about his lack of empathy toward Adam Thomas, imploring him to show more compassion for his unwell campmate.
The ongoing drama continues to unfold on I'm A Celebrity... South Africa, which airs on ITV1 and the ITVX streaming platform, keeping viewers engaged with its combination of celebrity challenges and interpersonal conflicts.
