Coronation Street Star Beverley Callard Vows Revenge on David Haye in I'm A Celebrity South Africa
The explosive new series of I'm A Celebrity... South Africa has barely begun, yet tensions are already running high as Coronation Street icon Beverley Callard has threatened to "chin" former world champion boxer David Haye. The dramatic confrontation unfolded during the show's launch episode, which aired on Monday, 6 April 2026, setting the stage for a fiery season ahead.
Ageist Decision Sparks Fury in the Jungle
Haye, 45, immediately alienated Callard, 69, when faced with a critical team selection. Given the choice between Callard and former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt, 35, for his squad, Haye opted for Moffatt. He bluntly justified his decision by suggesting that Callard's age would hinder her performance in the gruelling Bushtucker trials, stating, "It's survival. We've got to eat."
Callard, who portrayed Liz McDonald on the ITV soap for three decades, was left seething. She retorted, "Up yours – I will get my own back," and warned Haye he was "going to pay for that decision." Later, in a candid moment with fellow Coronation Street actor Adam Thomas, she elaborated on her fury, revealing her longstanding fandom had turned to resentment.
"I've been a fan of his for years and years and years, but not anymore, I tell you," Callard confessed. "I was thinking, 'You're going to get it, mate, you are going to get it'. I've thought about this, over the hours, thinking that I'm going to chin him and all the rest of it." Thomas, attempting to defuse the situation, pleaded, "Please don't chin David Haye."
Mixed Reactions from Fellow Contestants
Even Moffatt expressed reservations about Haye's choice, quipping, "I did appreciate you picking us, but I just think anyone of the age for a free bus pass shouldn't be sent to Savannah Scrub." Haye's other teammates appeared hesitant, considering Callard would be relegated to basic camp with limited rations, but he remained steadfast in his strategy.
The all-stars series, which premiered three years after Myleene Klass won the inaugural South African edition, features returning favourites including Sinitta and Gemma Collins. However, the spotlight has swiftly shifted to this brewing feud.
Callard's Personal Journey and Health Battle
Callard previously expressed excitement about participating in the South African series, contrasting it with her 2020 experience in Wales due to Covid restrictions. "I loved it all," she said, "but Wales was so different. We didn't get to experience the Australian jungle and the bedroom was minus one [degree]."
Since filming, Callard has faced a significant health challenge, revealing in February 2026 that she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent surgery. She has since returned to work, appearing at the I'm A Celebrity... South Africa launch event, showcasing her resilience.
For Haye, this marks his first jungle appearance in 14 years, having previously finished third behind Charlie Brooks. Whether his survival tactics will pay off or backfire in the face of Callard's threats remains to be seen as the series progresses.
