ITV Star Denise Welch Slams I'm A Celebrity Bosses Over David Haye's Return
An ITV star has launched a scathing attack on the producers of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! for permitting former boxer David Haye to participate in the All Stars series. The criticism follows Haye's contentious remarks about 'ugly girls' during a recent episode, which have sparked widespread outrage among viewers and celebrities alike.
Denise Welch's Fiery Response to Haye's Comments
Loose Women panellist Denise Welch expressed her fury after viewing clips of David Haye's comments, branding him a 'complete k**b'. In a social media post, Welch questioned the decision to invite Haye back, stating, 'I’ve been away so only seen clips but how did David Haye get invited back as an ‘All Star’??? Was he not a complete k**b the first time round??' Her remarks highlight growing discontent over Haye's inclusion in the show.
David Haye's Controversial Statements on 'Ugly Girls'
During the broadcast, David Haye made several inflammatory comments about his girlfriend Sian Osbourne and women in general. He asserted that his girlfriend possessed the 'personality of a proper ugly bird' and elaborated on what he termed 'Ugly Duckling syndrome'. Haye suggested that women who are not conventionally attractive develop stronger personalities to compensate, while 'pretty girls' often lack such traits.
He further exacerbated the situation by discussing nightclub entry policies, claiming that only attractive women are allowed in, leaving their 'ugly friends' behind. Haye added, 'I've seen it, I've watched it with my own eyes. It's horrible. I feel terrible for these poor girls. She's the one normally driving as well.' These statements have been widely condemned as sexist and demeaning.
Public and Celebrity Backlash Against Haye
Fans and fellow celebrities have joined Denise Welch in criticising David Haye's comments. Social media platforms have been flooded with responses branding Haye as 'insecure', 'vile', and 'arrogant'. One fan commented, 'David is so unbelievably painfully arrogant and insecure #ImACeleb Bev got it right! He is the boobie prize!' Another expressed confusion over Haye's relationship status, given his remarks.
A third viewer noted, 'Comments like those from David Haye about ‘ugly girls’ needing personality aren’t just outdated, they’re disrespectful and dehumanising. Even worse, most laughed instead of challenging it. More voices need to speak up when this kind of casual sexism gets a pass. Gross.' This backlash underscores a broader call for accountability in media portrayals of gender issues.
Implications for I'm A Celebrity and ITV
The controversy raises questions about the selection criteria for participants on reality TV shows like I'm A Celebrity. With Denise Welch and others voicing strong objections, ITV faces pressure to address the fallout from Haye's comments. The incident highlights ongoing debates about sexism in entertainment and the responsibilities of broadcasters in curating content that respects diverse audiences.
As the All Stars series continues, viewers are keenly watching how the show handles this situation and whether further actions will be taken in response to the public outcry. The row serves as a reminder of the powerful impact celebrity behaviour can have on societal attitudes and media standards.
