ITV's hit reality series I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! has faced fresh allegations of staging 'fake scenes' during its dramatic 2025 launch, but a former contestant has now stepped forward to defend the current stars.
The Controversial Jungle Entrance
Viewers watching the first episode of the 2025 series on Sunday, November 16 witnessed ten celebrities making their grand entrance into the Australian jungle. In what has become a traditional opening, five of the contestants arrived by helicopter before being told they needed to jump from 12,000 feet to reach their destination.
The celebrities displayed genuine-looking shock and surprise at their aerial challenge, but seasoned fans of the show were quick to question their authenticity on social media platforms. The programme, now in its 25th year on ITV, has featured similar parachute entrances numerous times before.
Viewer Backlash and Social Media Reaction
Almost immediately after the episode aired, viewers took to social media to express their scepticism about the contestants' reactions. One social media user pointedly asked: "Why do they act shocked when this happens every season?"
Another viewer shared a popular GIF featuring the caption 'pretends to be shocked' alongside the comment: "The celebs when they are told they have to jump out the helicopter even though it happens every year."
A third critic offered a more detailed observation: "You're in a helicopter and DIDN'T expect to have to jump out!? The guy crouching in the corner with two parachutes didn't give it away."
Former Campmate Sets the Record Straight
Nicola McLean, who participated in the 2008 series of the reality show, has now broken her silence on the allegations. Speaking exclusively on behalf of WhichBingo, the former glamour model and television personality defended the current contestants against claims they were 'pretending' to be shocked.
McLean explained that no amount of preparation can truly ready someone for the jungle experience: "I think what you've got to understand is you can prepare yourself for the jungle. I went to London Zoo and touched reptiles because I was like 'right, I'm terrified of this s**t' so I need to prepare but then you get in there and you're in a helicopter and they're like swooping around because they want to get the title scene and it's hell."
She passionately defended the authenticity of the contestants' reactions, stating: "So I don't think it's like pretending to be shocked or pretending to be scared. I genuinely think once you're in there you're like 'Oh my God' like it's beyond your wildest dreams and it's really scary."
Thoughts on the 2025 Line-up
Beyond addressing the 'fake scenes' controversy, McLean also shared her enthusiastic approval of this year's celebrity cast. She particularly highlighted the inclusion of musicians Aitch and Angry Ginge, noting how their presence has attracted a younger audience.
"They've done so well on getting Aitch and Angry Ginge because my 15 year old is watching it with me for the first time ever," McLean revealed. "He doesn't usually watch because he says he doesn't know anyone but this year he's sitting down with me and I'm making hot chocolate so it's lovely."
She also praised the selection of Martin Kemp for appealing to "the older ladies" and expressed her admiration for fellow contestant Ruby Wax.
I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! continues to air nightly at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with the 2025 series promising more drama from the Australian jungle.
