Gemma Collins teases “redemption” arc as she returns to the I’m a Celebrity jungle

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I’m so excited to hear Gemma Collins is going back on I’m a Celebrity! It feels like she’s really determined to show everyone a different side of herself this time, and I’m here for it. It’s all about a fresh start and proving what she’s capable of, and I can’t wait to watch her journey!

The reality TV star first joined the show in 2014 and quickly became a fan favorite, but she unexpectedly quit, becoming the first contestant to leave that season.

Honestly, watching Collins on the show was tough. She really struggled with being in the jungle and kept saying she needed to leave. She told producers she couldn’t handle it after just three days, that it was causing serious panic and stress, and she just wasn’t coping. It was clear she was really distressed and needed to get out.

She continued, saying she needed to leave immediately. She couldn’t stand to spend another day there, calling the situation unacceptable and absurd. She vowed to never participate in a show like that again, and said it had ruined television for her.

I’m really frustrated and can’t deal with this anymore. I need to leave, and I definitely won’t be returning. That’s a promise – I’m done for good.

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Why, then, is she returning?

Gemma Collins recently told the media, including TopMob, that reuniting with Craig Charles – who is also back after ten years – felt like a major turning point for her.

Collins shared that they had a good time and connected well with the others during the first season, but the whole experience felt very strange and unreal.

She explained that no matter how much you prepare, you can’t predict what will happen next. This experience felt like a complete turnaround for her, but she also noted it was significantly more challenging than anything she’d faced previously.

ITV says this season of the show will be the most challenging yet for the celebrity contestants.

Joining Gemma Collins are several well-known stars who have previously appeared on the show, such as Adam Thomas, Ashley Roberts, Scarlett Moffatt, David Haye, Beverley Callard, and Seann Walsh.

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The show also welcomes back Sir Mo Farah, Craig Charles, Sinitta, Jimmy Bullard, and Harry Redknapp.

The winner will be chosen by the public! For the first time, viewers will decide who becomes the 2026 champion.

After a rollercoaster of challenges and dramatic moments, it’s finally up to the viewers to decide the winner in a live finale, broadcast straight from London!

I’m a Celebrity… South Africa returns this April on ITV.

Don’t miss I’m a Celebrity… South Africa! Add it to your watchlist on the TopMob: What to Watch app. Download the app now for daily TV recommendations and features.

Authors

Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality competitions to impactful documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she focused on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a degree in Journalism.

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Phoebe Kowhai BarnesFreelance Writer

Phoebe Kowhai Barnes is a freelance writer specializing in pop culture and entertainment for TopMob. Before that, she was a Senior Assistant Editor at The Tab, where she oversaw their local team. She has a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Nottingham.

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2026-03-09 22:34