I’m A Celebrity All Stars: Lineup Reveals Why They’re Back for More Trials

For entertainment industry insiders and reality TV aficionados in Los Angeles, the calendar just got a lot more interesting. While the sun sets over Santa Monica Pier, attention is shifting toward the South African wilderness, where the cameras have already rolled for the second series of I’m A Celebrity… Acquire Me Out Of Here! South Africa. This isn’t just another season; it is an All-Stars lineup featuring twelve familiar faces returning to the jungle, scheduled to premiere on April 6, 2026. For viewers here in California accustomed to checking reality TV schedules for domestic productions, this international spin-off offers a unique look at how global formats evolve, particularly with significant changes to how the winner is ultimately crowned.

The production timeline reveals a strategic shift from the usual live elimination format. According to verified reports, the series was pre-recorded back in September 2025. In other words the twelve campmates have already endured the trials, though the suspense remains intact for the audience. Unlike the first run of the South Africa series, the winner this time will be determined by a public vote. The final is set to be broadcast from London on April 24th, involving a viewer vote so fans can have their say. This hybrid approach—pre-recorded survival with a live finale decision—creates a distinct viewing dynamic compared to the standard OG season eliminated style.

The Starting Eight: Legends and Redemption

The cast features several massive names, including soaps legend Beverley Callard and Olympian Mo Farah. Callard, a Coronation Street actress who finished tenth on the ITV series six years ago, has shared poignant details about her journey since her last appearance. She credits her appearance on the 2020 series with giving her a much-needed confidence boost. However, her return comes with personal gravity; she revealed last month that since recording the show in South Africa last year, she had been diagnosed with breast cancer which was caught in the “very early stages”. She has since had surgery which included the removal of lymph nodes. Despite this, she is swapping the freezing Welsh castle for the warm South African jungle, though she admits she is still terrified of the eating trials.

Former Queen of the Jungle Scarlett Moffatt is likewise returning, despite winning the series in 2016. She admits she is feeling apprehensive about going into camp again. For Moffatt, the return is partly about personal relaxation away from being a mum to a toddler. She noted it would be nice to have some time just for her, especially as the show has been such a big part of her life. Meanwhile, comedian Seann Walsh, who came fifth on the 2022 show, credits the programme with saving his stand-up career. He noted that outside of the jungle, doing stand-up is extraordinary but lonely at times, and he gets nervous meeting new people.

Other notable starters include former champion boxer David Haye, who finished in third place back in 2012. Haye claims the trials were “quite easy” last time and is looking forward to the South African wildlife. Pop singer Sinitta, who was the second celebrity to be voted out in 2011, is hoping the jungle will cure her of her phobias. Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah, who came fifth in 2020, says that now he is retired from athletics, viewers might get to see a whole new side to him. He can talk about things in more detail without worrying about competition rules. Heart radio DJ Ashley Roberts, the runner-up in 2012, says the show changed her life, leading her to live in the UK ever since. Finally, ex Emmerdale actor Adam Thomas, who finished third in 2016, says he is scared to death of spiders and cockroaches but hopes to place a smile on the campmates’ faces.

The Four Latecomers

Adding to the drama are four late entrants who will join the camp after the series begins. Gemma Collins has called her return “total redemption” after pulling out four days in the first time around. She admitted she was absolutely bricking it but felt she had to go back into that jungle. Harry Redknapp, who won in 2018, will be a late entrant but only by a short time period. He noted he has a pal in camp, Jimmy Bullard, whom he signed when managing West Ham. Craig Charles was last on the show in 2014 when he had to pull out as of a family tragedy back home; his brother Dean passed away. He says he just wants a bit of adventure this time. Bullard, who was last on the show in 2014 after retiring from football, described the camp as close as he had been to a changing room since leaving football.

Industry Implications for Los Angeles Professionals

While this is a UK production filmed in South Africa, the logistics mirror challenges faced by production houses in Los Angeles. The movement of talent across borders, health safety protocols, and international broadcasting rights are daily concerns for entertainment hubs like ours. Given my background in geo-journalism, if this trend of international reality production impacts you in Los Angeles, here are the three types of local professionals you require to consider for similar ventures.

First, Travel Medicine Specialists are essential. Just as the cast headed to South Africa, any production team or talent traveling to remote locations requires specialized health guidance. Look for clinics affiliated with major institutions like the UCLA Health system that offer pre-travel consultations specifically for immunizations and regional health risks. Criteria for hiring should include board certification in travel medicine and experience with entertainment industry schedules.

Second, Entertainment Insurance Brokers are critical for mitigating risk. Production delays due to health issues, like those mentioned regarding cast members, require robust coverage. Seek out brokers who understand the nuances of completion bonds and talent insurance. Verify their standing with the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences network or similar industry bodies to ensure they meet professional standards.

Third, International Tax Consultants are necessary for cross-border income. Celebrities and crew working in South Africa while residing in the US or UK face complex tax liabilities. Professionals should be well-versed in tax treaties between the US, UK, and South Africa. Ensure they have a track record with the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board partners or similar entities that handle international media projects.

As the show prepares to launch on Easter Monday at 9pm on ITV1, the blend of pre-recorded tension and live voting promises a unique experience. Whether you are watching from London or streaming from Los Angeles, the stakes are high for these twelve blasts from the past.

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