The new series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! has returned, featuring celebrities such as Ruby Wax, Shona McGarty, and rapper Aitch. While viewers watch the campmates tackle trials and jungle life, there is much more happening behind the cameras. From the strict phone call policy to the massive number of insects used, here are ten secrets about the show.
Before entering the jungle, celebrities are allowed only one phone call before their technology is confiscated. They are chaperoned from the UK to Australia, and upon arrival at their pre-show accommodation, they must hand over their phones and other devices. The time difference between the UK and Australia means presenters start work as early as 2.30am for voiceovers, with makeup and script reading before going live at 7am UK time.
The set is covered with cameras, and there are 13 edit suites used throughout the series. The 'nerve centre' operates 24 hours a day, logging the celebrities' actions and communicating with those in the Bush Telegraph. Despite appearing remote, the camp is located in Springbrook National Park in Murwillumbah, Queensland. Crew members stay in Coolangatta, while celebrities' families reportedly lodge at the Palazzo Versace Hotel.
Prospective contestants receive a pack including a DVD to prepare them for the experience. The production employs around 150 crew daily, who are provided with regular meals. Medical teams have been busy over the years, dealing with tick bites, anaphylactic shock, and removing over 100 ticks from cast and crew, as well as relocating 22 carpet pythons. Eliminated celebrities must see the show's psychiatrist and have their weight and blood pressure checked by Medic Bob.
The iconic waterfall is actually man-made, with hot water and can be turned off when not in use. Each series uses 250,000 cockroaches, 153,000 crickets, 2.5 million mealworms, 400 spiders, 500 rats, and 30 snakes. After the UK series ends, the German team takes over the same location, with other countries like France, Sweden, India, Hungary, and the US also filming their versions there.
Former contestant Rebekah Vardy previously claimed the show is 'all fake', noting that cameras are on zipwires and follow contestants everywhere. However, she admitted the food scarcity is real, stating, 'You literally have to be on your last legs to get anything.' She added that having TV experience is crucial for success on the show.
