Viewers of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! have been set alight by the prospect of a genuine jungle romance unfolding between two of this year's most popular campmates. What began as whispered speculation has now burst into full flame, captivating the British public.
The Spark That Lit the Fire
When the ITV reality show first began, the idea of a relationship seemed unlikely. While it was known that former EastEnders actress Shona McGarty, 34, was single after her split from famous musician fiancé David Bracken, most believed rapper Aitch, 25, was still in a relationship with his student girlfriend, Lois Cottam.
This perception was completely overturned in a later episode. In a candid moment with his campmate Angry Ginge, Aitch opened up about his feelings, confessing, "I've got a bit of a soft spot for Shona, me." Ginge teased him in response, asking, "I think she's really nice, if that's what you mean, yeah?" to which Aitch smilingly confirmed, "Yeah, that's what I mean."
The situation was officially clarified by none other than hosts Ant and Dec, who confirmed that both celebrities were, in fact, single. This revelation sent fans into a frenzy on social media. It subsequently emerged that Aitch had quietly split from Lois Cottam before flying out to Australia for the show. A source close to the pair confirmed the amicable separation, stating, "There’s no bad blood and she hopes he does well in the jungle."
Fans and Presenters Voice Their Support
The potential for an onscreen romance has been met with widespread enthusiasm. Presenter Ant McPartlin voiced his own support, telling viewers, "It's been a while since we've had a proper one on this show. We'd love to see it. We would celebrate it."
This sentiment was echoed loudly by the viewing public. One fan insisted on social media, "Aitch and Shona would make a lovely couple!" After the initial excitement, the romantic speculation appeared to simmer down for a couple of episodes, leaving some to wonder if the spark had fizzled out.
However, during Tuesday night's broadcast, the speculation was reignited with even greater force. Cameras captured Shona gazing at the topless rapper and noticeably licking her lips, a moment that did not escape the eagle-eyed audience. One viewer astutely tweeted, "Shona, we see you checking out Aitch there."
Family Approval and The Looming Evictions
Adding a significant new layer to the story, Shona's family have now publicly weighed in on the potential pairing. As she arrived in Australia, Shona's sister, Camila, spoke to the Mirror, giving Aitch her clear approval.
She told the publication, "He is a nice guy... I would definitely have him around for Christmas." This family endorsement has further fuelled hopes that a relationship could blossom beyond the jungle.
The big question now hanging over the camp is timing. With the first evictions imminent, the public will soon begin voting campmates out. Will this budding romance have a chance to properly develop before one of them potentially leaves the camp? The nation is watching intently, waiting to see if this jungle flirtation will turn into a full-fledged love story.