I'm A Celebrity 2025: Fans 'work out why' ITV bosses create Rivals challenge as stars prepare to go head-to-head
The new twist was announced by hosts Ant and Dec last nightI’m A Celebrity viewers reckon they’ve already cracked the real reason behind the show’s brand-new Rivals twist.
At the end of last night’s episode (November 25), Ant and Dec dropped the bombshell that the camp is being split into two competing groups – and the celebs will be thrown into head-to-head showdowns chosen by the public.
Fans at home get to vote for the pairings, with each face-off helping to decide who ends up in the firing line for the first public vote, which is rapidly approaching. And according to many viewers, this shake-up isn’t just about drama… it might be producers’ way of turning up the heat before the eliminations kick in.
Reason for I’m A Celebrity Rivals challenge ‘revealed’
The new format has received mixed reviews from viewers, with many believing there’s a hidden reason behind it.
“The producers are attempting to create some tension in the camp,” one person shared their theory on X. “All of the campmates are being harmonious which is probably giving the producers a nightmare.”
Another person agreed: “Head-to-head trials – translated – everyone’s bored of everyone getting on and we wanna see competition and potential drama.”
Ant & Dec: You’re all about to become RIVALS”
The camp: pic.twitter.com/2jcotMUgDY
— ★ ANASTAZIA ★ (@__Anastazia__) November 25, 2025
“This Rivals task might heat things up a bit, good it needs it,” a third person also mused.
A fourth likewise said: “This Rivals thing could be good, let’s hope this causes drama.”
Trial preview as Vogue and Kelly go head-to-head
A teaser for tonight’s episode (November 26) has confirmed that Kelly Brook and Vogue Williams will be the first celebs thrown into the Rivals arena.
The duo are tasked with a truly revolting challenge: racing to devour an entire pig’s brain as quickly as possible.
It’s every bit as grim as it sounds – and definitely not one to watch while you’re tucking into your dinner.
