Just one episode into the new series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! has sparked significant controversy, with viewers already calling for American actress Ruby Wax to be removed from the show.
Early Clashes in the Mansion
The popular ITV jungle series returned with its customary fanfare, hosted by the ever-present duo Ant and Dec, welcoming a fresh batch of celebrities including Emmerdale's Lisa Riley, Twitch streamer Angry Ginge, sports presenter Alex Scott and TV personality Jack Osbourne.
However, the initial meeting at a luxury mansion saw tensions emerge almost immediately. Viewers witnessed Ruby Wax telling fellow contestant Angry Ginge: 'If you could just get out of my way because there are cameras there.'
The streamer responded politely with an apology, but Ruby continued to explain that he shouldn't obstruct her during filming. The situation escalated when she later stated: 'I'm just be going to move you out of the way throughout the show because I am small and it throws a shadow.'
Social Media Backlash Erupts
The exchange didn't sit well with viewers, who took to social media platform X to express their dissatisfaction with Ruby's behaviour.
One frustrated viewer posted: 'Not having Ruby Wax. Annoying.' while another added: 'Already finding Ruby Wax annoying #ImACeleb.' A third commented more strongly: 'I'm sorry but ruby wax is doing my head in She hopeless and annoying.'
The criticism centred around perceptions of Ruby being rude, unlikeable and annoying towards her fellow campmates, with many questioning her place in the competition after just the first episode.
Defenders Rise to Her Support
Not all reactions were negative, however. Some viewers came to Ruby's defence, suggesting that younger audiences might not appreciate her distinctive comedic style.
One supporter argued: 'All these idiot Gen Z's not getting Ruby Wax's humour. She's a comedy legend. #ImACeleb.' Another added: 'I grew up with absolutely fabulous which ruby wax was a writer on, so she's a comedy goddess in my household. sorry x #ImACeleb.'
This division among the audience highlights the generational gap in humour appreciation and sets the stage for potential ongoing tension throughout the series.
Historical Precedent for Camp Conflict
This isn't the first time behaviour has been questioned on the popular reality show. During Sunday's spin-off programme, I'm A Celebrity Unpacked, This Morning presenter Alison Hammond revealed her own past conflicts with former campmate Shaun Ryder from her 2010 jungle experience.
Alison didn't hold back, describing the musician as 'very rude' and recalling how he 'hated my guts straight away for no reason.' She expressed hope that this year's camp wouldn't contain similar personalities.
Shaun Ryder had previously acknowledged their rocky relationship, stating two years ago: 'Ever since the jungle show, I knew Alison didn't like me. But fair enough, nobody has to like each other. It's not against the law.'
As the new series continues tonight at 9pm on ITV and ITVX, all eyes will be on whether Ruby Wax can win over her critics or if the backlash will continue to grow.
