5 things that are wrong with I’m A Celebrity South Africa and how ITV can fix it
Look away now, Ant and Dec…
I’m A Celebrity‘s all-stars spin-off promised bigger personalities, tougher trials and a nostalgic return to fan favourites – but while I’m A Celebrity South Africa has delivered some memorable moments, viewers have been vocal about what isn’t working.
Here are five of the biggest complaints, and how the show could turn things around.
1. I’m A Celebrity South Africa suffering from Ant and Dec fatigue
Let’s start with the hosts. Ant and Dec are TV royalty, but some viewers feel their presenting style is beginning to feel a bit… familiar. After two decades at the helm, the jokes can feel predictable and the energy less fresh.
Fix it: Keep them, but shake things up. Bring in a rotating third presenter or guest commentator to inject new energy and perspectives without losing the show’s identity.
2. Too many British contestants
Despite being filmed in South Africa and branded as a special edition, the cast still feels overwhelmingly UK-centric. Audiences are increasingly global, and they want a line-up that reflects that. So many overseas stars have taken part, sign them up, ITV!
Fix it: Broaden the casting net. Re-introduce well-known personalities from Europe, the US and beyond. A more international mix would create new dynamics and expand the show’s appeal.
3. Cliffhanger overload
Nothing frustrates viewers more than investing in an episode only to be told we’ll find out the outcome tomorrow. The constant use of cliffhangers – especially around trials and eliminations – is wearing thin.
Fix it: Use cliffhangers sparingly. Deliver satisfying payoffs within each episode and save the suspense tactics for genuinely big moments.
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4. Not being live kills the buzz
One of the original show’s biggest strengths is its live format. It creates urgency, unpredictability and a sense that anything can happen. The pre-recorded nature of I’m A Celebrity South Africa strips away that excitement
Fix it: Go live, or at least partially. Even a hybrid model with live eliminations or audience voting would bring back that must-watch immediacy.
5. The I’m A Celebrity all-stars concept feels underused
Bringing back former campmates is a great idea in theory, but the show doesn’t always lean into their history. Rivalries, friendships and unfinished business often feel glossed over.
Fix it: Make the most of the backstories. Build challenges and storylines around past moments to give the series a stronger narrative hook. Put in contestants with serious beef or past relationships and really draw in the viewers!
I’m A Celebrity South Africa isn’t beyond saving – far from it. With a few smart tweaks, it could recapture the magic that made the original such a hit.
Read more: I’m A Celebrity South Africa final to be two-part special and fans are furious