19 November 2023 , 21:00
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I'm A Celebrity fans were left confused this evening as two rumoured stars were nowhere to be seen as the show kicked off this evening.
Jockey legend Frankie Dettori and pro boxer Tony Bellew are believed to be entering the jungle, but were not among the 10 celebrities launched into the Australian jungle tonight. Controversial former politician Nigel Farage, This Morning star Josie Gibson and Britney Spears' sister were some of the famous faces viewers were introduced to this evening.
It is believed that Tony and Frankie will be the two late entries introduced to shake things up in the jungle, like Seann Walsh and Matt Hancock were last year. However, some celebrities have already proved to be a bit of a headache for ITV bosses. Jamie Lynn Spears refused to take part in media chats prior to entering the jungle.
While it is not required by their contract to speak to journalists ahead of starring on the ITV show, it is incredibly rare for a celebrity to not do so. A TV source told the Mirror: "It is disappointing Jamie Lynn wouldn't speak to journalists out in Australia. She kept her head down at Brisbane airport which is fair enough after a long flight, but it is highly unusual to not take part in the media chats whilst waiting to go into camp this week.
Frankie Dettori and Tony Bellew are not part of the starting line-up (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)"In fact, it is almost unprecedented and even Boy George took part last year when he has rarely done interviews for a decade. The last contestant we can remember to refuse to do the pre show interviews was David Gest, and that was back in 2006. It is not a great sign if you are hoping Jamie Lynn is going to be hugely talkative on the show and give up lots of goss about Britney. Hopefully she finds her voice in camp."
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F ans have also threatened to boycott the show after it was reported that Nigel Farage was paid over £1.5million to take part. More than 1,000 people have sent complaints to Ant and Dec who are already down under ahead of filming and further celebrity arrivals.
ITV responded to the backlash, saying in a statement: "I’m A Celebrity has always featured a diverse cast from all areas of public life and has a history of featuring political figures throughout its 20 years on screen. As with any camp mate, viewers are invited to form their own opinions when the show begins on Sunday."
*I'm A Celebrity airs every day at 9pm on ITV and ITVX