Wayne Rooney and YouTuber Sharky have been spotted at airports as speculation grows that they will appear on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! 2026. The former England striker was seen at Manchester Airport, while Sharmarke Mohamud, known as Sharky, was pictured at London Heathrow Airport.
Rooney Departs for Australia
Rooney, 41, was accompanied by his manager Paul Stretford on Sunday morning as he departed for Australia via Singapore. He was dressed in a black baseball cap and jeans, cutting a relaxed figure as he said farewell to England's chilly weather, in pictures obtained by The Mirror.
The former Manchester United captain is rumoured to be among 12 new campmates for the 2026 series, which launches on Monday, November 16. He is expected to join stars including Joanna Page, Chloe Burrows, Ade Adepitan, Claire Sweeney, Ricky Wilson, AJ Odudu, Sharky, Leigh Francis, Mariella Frostrup, Leomie Anderson and Jack Skipper.
Jungle Glow Up
Rooney is said to have undergone a 'jungle glow up' ahead of the series, appearing noticeably slimmer following a lifestyle overhaul. He recently denied using weight-loss injections.
When asked about his transformation, he said on This Morning: "I feel great, I haven't drank for a while. I just wanted to feel healthier and be healthier so I've changed my eating habits and training. Everyone's saying I'm on this pen thing, but I'm not, I've been working out to try and look better and be healthier," reports the Mirror.
Sharky's Rumoured Appearance
Sharky, 30, who launched his YouTube channel in 2015, is a member of the YouTube collective Beta Squad alongside Celebrity Traitors star King Kenny. He was pictured arriving at Heathrow as he prepared to board a flight ahead of his rumoured appearance.
The series is anticipated to last roughly three weeks, concluding with a live final in early December. Rooney's wife, Coleen, 40, finished as runner-up on the programme two years ago, losing to singer Danny Jones.
Before entering the competition, Wayne would be required to complete a psychological assessment and inform producers of any physical conditions that might prevent him from taking part in specific trials. Participants are forbidden from informing anyone, including friends who have previously appeared on the programme, that they are heading into the jungle until the broadcaster formally announces the news. Those taking part are also prohibited from seeking advice from past contestants, which could prove challenging for Rooney given Coleen's previous participation and the fact they share a home.
I'm A Celebrity airs on ITV from Monday, November 16.
