I’m A Celebrity legend Tony Bellew backs trial rule change after campmate Nella Rose left ‘a broken woman'

The trial change came as a shock to fans
Rebecca Sayers

I’m A Celebrity star Tony Bellew has spoken out about the new Bushtucker Trial rule change, after fans were left divided.

This Sunday (November 16), I’m A Celebrity makes its highly-anticipated return to our screens with a brand-new series. Already, there has been a lot of conversation online about it, especially as there have been a few rule changes. 

But while the changes have left a lot of fans divided, former I’m A Celebrity star Tony Bellew believes it will be a good thing for the show.

I'm A Celebrity 2025 line-up
The 2025 series kicks off on Sunday (Credit: ITV)

I’m A Celebrity Bushtucker Trial changes explained

Earlier this week, I’m A Celeb bosses revealed that there is going to be a huge twist on Bushtucker Trials for 2025.

From the start of the new series, the 2025 jungle campmates can only take part in two consecutive trials before they have to sit out and let someone else have a go.

Ultimately, the decision was made in order to stop viewers from voting for the same person over and over again – like fans do every year.

Confirming the news, an ITV spokesperson admitted it’s to keep everything fair in camp.

They said in a statement: “Show bosses are keen to give all campmates the opportunity to shine in Bushtucker Trials this year. And are bringing in a new rule. After a celebrity has been voted for two trials in a row, they cannot be voted for one on the next day.

“More campmates will have an opportunity to step up and play their part.  Viewers will get a chance to get to know them more.”

Tony Bellew on I'm A Celebrity
Tony thinks the rule change is for the good (Credit: ITV)

Tony Bellew in support

Speaking on behalf of EsportsBets, Tony shared his thoughts on this year’s shake-up. And it seems from his first-hand experience, the whole thing will be a positive.

Recalling his series, which saw Nella Rose being nominated for a lot of trials, Tony admitted it was hard to watch. And it ultimately “broke her”.

Tony said: “I really felt for Nella when we were in there. She is such a lovely girl. She got dealt a harsh hand because she kept getting put on the trials and challenges. It broke her to be fair.

“The trials basically should be shared out between all the celebs. Everyone should have to endure a horrific trial. I don’t care what your fear is or what you are in there for.”

The I’m A Celebrity legend concluded: “Everybody should have at least one horrific trial. Nobody should come out unscathed. Believe me, I did not.”

So, it might take a while for fans to get used to the new format. But it sounds like it definitely has the approval of former campmates. And they have actually lived the experience!

I’m A Celebrity begins on Sunday November 16 at 9pm on ITV1

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