Jimmy Bullard has openly admitted that he participated in I'm a Celebrity South Africa primarily for financial gain, shedding light on the specific terms of his contract that influenced his decision to leave the show prematurely. The former footballer, 47, disclosed that his agreement stipulated full payment if he exited during a trial, but only a small percentage of his fee if he departed from the camp. This revelation came during a tense live final in London, where Adam Thomas was crowned Jungle Legend.
The finale descended into chaos as Bullard accused Thomas of being abusive, aggressive, and intimidating during a heated argument captured in the pre-recorded show. Bullard, who left the series citing personal reasons, defended his departure method by emphasizing the significant financial implications for his family. He explained that the money was a major factor, especially after reportedly losing £625,000 in an investment scheme prior to his first jungle stint in 2014.
During the final, hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly gave Bullard an opportunity to address the controversy. Bullard stated, 'When we went down to the trial, it was originally for stars so then I chose Adam. Then you sprung a big light bulb moment in my head and said "The bottom two get to go home." So I didn't choose Adam after that, I didn't know anyone was going home.' He confirmed that he had informed Thomas, production, and fellow campmate Craig Charles of his intention to quit before the challenge began.
Bullard elaborated on his contract, noting that he asked production to discuss its terms for monetary reasons. 'My contract is pro rata,' he said, prompting a joke from Ant about footballers and contracts. Bullard retorted, 'It's all a job for us. It's a job for me and that money is big for me and my family. I made my mind up in that light bulb moment, I was going home. I had to go home for personal reasons, that is why I took Adam. And then all hell broke.'
Craig Charles, who finished fourth, commented on the spin-off show Unpacked, saying, 'Well it is all for the money, that's why we're here.' The All Stars series has been marred by bullying allegations and disputes among cast members, including Bullard, Thomas, and David Haye. During the live final, Gemma Collins and Sinitta stormed off stage in anger as Ant and Dec struggled to maintain order.
Bullard accused Thomas of using the C-word during their clash, which he described as abusive and intimidating. 'Listen, Adam and all of you can be upset with me and I absolutely threw him under the bus, I get it and I'll wear that. But what I don't stand on, is someone being abusive, aggressive and intimidating, I don't stand on that,' Bullard said. He challenged the hosts, claiming they failed to broadcast the full extent of the altercation. Ant defended the decision, stating the language was unbroadcastable and that he did not perceive it as intimidating.
Thomas accepted responsibility for his actions, apologizing repeatedly. However, Haye interjected, accusing the show of editing to portray Thomas as a victim. Sinitta, visibly upset, shouted at the audience, 'Guys, you weren't there, I was there and it was aggressive and abusive, we were shaking.' Bullard called for the uncut footage to be aired, but Ant and Dec concluded the segment by agreeing to disagree.
Earlier in the episode, Thomas had glossed over the row when asked about the drama, stating they had a great time. Viewers on social media expressed mixed opinions, with some supporting Bullard and others defending Thomas. Craig Charles later revealed on This Morning that the incident was more severe than broadcast, describing Thomas as a 'coiled up spring' who looked ready to attack Bullard. Charles said, 'It was deeply traumatic and really upsetting... They had to water down what [viewers saw] but they didn't water down our responses.'
Thomas, who suffers from psoriatic arthritis, has since sought therapy, admitting the feud with Haye affected his mental health. He said on his podcast, 'It was like being back in school again... He was just mind f***ing me.' Haye has continued to criticize Thomas on social media, claiming he was paid £20,000-25,000 per day for his appearance. The series saw Harry Redknapp and Mo Farah finish second and third, with Thomas ultimately winning the title.
