The I’m A Celebrity… South Africa all‑stars spin‑off is back, sending well‑known faces into a harsher wilderness for another round of gruelling trials and alliances. After debuting as a special run in 2026 — won by Myleene Klass — the programme returns to ITV and promises familiar personalities, fresh confrontations and a notable change to the way the winner will be chosen: the final will be filmed live in the UK so viewers can cast their votes.
Unlike the live elements of the main Australia series, the bulk of this South Africa season has already been recorded. Producers have, however, introduced a new dynamic by keeping the finale open to real‑time public input. Expect a combination of pre‑shot drama inside the camps and a climactic, interactive finish that hands the power back to the audience.
What the format change means
This edition maintains the core survival and challenge structure fans know, but the live final reshapes the stakes. Contestants will spend most of the run in a pre‑recorded environment where editors control narrative flow, yet the live UK finale introduces an element of unpredictability and direct public influence. The producers have also introduced staggered arrivals: two pairs of latecomer entrants are scheduled to join during the series, designed to unsettle existing camp dynamics and force new alliances.
Cast highlights and storylines to watch
The line‑up brings a mix of previous winners, fan favourites and contestants who left early or under unusual circumstances. Among the returnees is Scarlett Moffatt, who has reflected on how her earlier appearance shaped her confidence and public life. Comedian Seann Walsh returns after using the show to reboot his career and now faces the emotional challenge of time away from his children. Long‑running soap star Beverley Callard appears after filming in Wales during the pandemic era and following a recent breast cancer diagnosis; she was present at the show’s launch and is expected to feature in the live final.
Former finalists and winners
Several contestants who previously performed strongly are back to chase the informal title of Jungle Legend. Boxer David Haye — last on the podium 14 years ago — returns confident and physically prepared, while ex‑Pussycat Doll Ashley Roberts, the 2012 queen, hopes to channel past success into new resilience. Athlete Sir Mo Farah, who experienced a Wales‑based series in 2026 rather than Australia, is aiming higher this time and has publicly admitted to a strong dislike of snakes, which could be a narrative thread if snake trials appear.
Latecomers and redemption arcs
Producers have also added well‑known names as staggered entries to stir the camp. Reality star Gemma Collins returns to exorcise regrets after withdrawing early in 2014, while entertainer Craig Charles gets another shot after his previous exit was cut short by personal tragedy. Manager Harry Redknapp, former early exit Jimmy Bullard, and actor‑turned‑star Adam Thomas all bring different motivations — from crown‑seeking ambition to the hope of rewriting earlier narratives.
Why viewers should tune in
The appeal rests on a familiar formula refreshed by two main ingredients: the emotional weight of seeing former contestants given fresh opportunities, and the suspense of a live public vote determining the winner. With hosts Ant and Dec returning to guide the show, fans can expect a balance of humour, tension and spectacle as returning names face tougher trials and the unpredictability of new arrivals. For long‑time viewers, the season offers closure for unfinished stories; for newer audiences it presents a concentrated, star‑packed version of the format.
Final thought
Whether you follow the show for the trials, the personalities or the social drama, this all‑stars run promises heightened stakes and novel mechanics. The recorded episodes will build narratives and rivalries, but the live UK finale on Monday (6 April) hands control to the public and could tilt the result in unexpected directions, making this iteration one to watch closely.
