Veteran Coronation Street star Beverley Callard has openly shared that her initial experience on the popular ITV reality series, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, significantly contributed to overcoming personal struggles with "low self-esteem," instilling in her a newfound sense of confidence. The esteemed actress, aged 69, known for her iconic portrayal of Liz McDonald on the long-running ITV soap, is poised to make a highly anticipated return to the challenging jungle environment for the forthcoming all-star iteration of the show, titled I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! South Africa. This return marks a unique chapter for Callard, offering a fresh perspective on a format she previously encountered under vastly different circumstances.
Coronation Street Icon’s Transformative Experience
Beverley Callard’s career in British television spans decades, with her role as Liz McDonald on Coronation Street cementing her status as a household name. Liz McDonald, a fiercely independent and often tumultuous landlady of the Rovers Return Inn, became one of the soap’s most enduring and beloved characters since her debut in 1989. Callard’s nuanced portrayal earned her widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, navigating complex storylines ranging from domestic abuse to turbulent relationships, always with a characteristic blend of resilience and vulnerability. Beyond her on-screen persona, Callard has been remarkably candid about her private battles with clinical depression, a struggle she has spoken about publicly on numerous occasions. Her openness has made her an advocate for mental health awareness, adding a profound layer of significance to her statement regarding the positive impact of I’m A Celebrity on her self-worth. For someone who has spent much of her adult life in the public eye, often under immense pressure, finding a source of personal empowerment in an unexpected environment like a reality television camp highlights the unique psychological journey the show can offer. Her revelation underscores the growing discourse around mental well-being among public figures and the therapeutic potential, however unconventional, of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
From Weatherfield to Gwrych Castle: Callard’s First Jungle Stint
Callard’s inaugural foray into the I’m A Celebrity universe occurred in 2020, a year profoundly shaped by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike the show’s traditional Australian jungle setting, this series was relocated to the historic Gwrych Castle in North Wales. The change in venue presented a unique set of challenges, trading the humid, insect-laden environment of the Australian outback for the cold, damp, and often austere conditions of a medieval castle. Contestants faced colder temperatures, limited outdoor space, and the general confinement that came with pandemic restrictions, all of which amplified the already demanding nature of the show.
During her time in Gwrych Castle, Callard endeared herself to viewers with her genuine personality and determination, despite navigating the added complexity of adhering to a vegan diet during her stay. This dietary choice, a personal commitment, led to creative culinary adaptations for the camp’s chefs during Bushtucker Trials, often providing moments of lightheartedness and discussion among the contestants and viewers alike. Despite the unusual setting and personal challenges, Callard forged strong bonds with her fellow campmates, showcasing her warm and down-to-earth nature. She ultimately finished in 10th place, a respectable position that reflected her popularity and resilience during a truly unprecedented series. Her experience in Wales, though memorable, diverged significantly from the quintessential jungle adventure, setting the stage for her desire to participate in the ‘true’ jungle environment.
The Call to the South African Savannah: A Different Challenge
The opportunity to return for the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! South Africa series clearly resonated with Callard. Expressing her astonishment, she remarked, "I was really flattered when I got the call. In fact, I was gobsmacked!" Her decision to accept the invitation was largely driven by the desire for an authentic jungle experience, one that the Welsh castle, despite its charm, could not fully replicate. "Wales was so different. We didn’t get to experience the Australian jungle and the bedroom was minus one. To be part of the South Africa jungle is going to be a very different experience," she elaborated. While Callard referenced the "Australian jungle," the new all-star series is filmed in the rugged and beautiful landscape of South Africa, specifically in the Limpopo province, near Kruger National Park. This setting offers a unique blend of savannah, bushveld, and mountainous terrain, bringing its own distinct flora and fauna, and presenting a different set of environmental challenges compared to the Australian rainforest. The South African camp, with its diverse wildlife and unpredictable weather patterns, promises an intensified and visually distinct backdrop for the celebrity trials and tribulations, offering Callard the immersive wild experience she yearned for.
"I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!": A Global Phenomenon
I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! has evolved into one of ITV’s most successful and enduring reality television franchises since its inception in 2002. The show’s core premise, which sees a group of celebrities abandon their luxurious lifestyles to endure basic camp conditions and participate in often stomach-churning "Bushtucker Trials" to earn food and treats, has captivated audiences worldwide. Its success lies in its ability to strip back the celebrity façade, revealing the raw, unvarnished personalities of its contestants under extreme pressure. Over the years, the show has become a cultural touchstone, generating countless memorable moments, viral clips, and launching renewed careers for many participants. The concept has been adapted in numerous countries, testifying to its universal appeal. The original series, typically filmed in the Springbrook National Park in Queensland, Australia, established the template for exotic locales, terrifying trials, and the dramatic interplay of personalities. The introduction of the ‘all-star’ or ‘legends’ format, as seen with I’m A Celebrity… South Africa, represents a strategic evolution, tapping into the nostalgia and loyalty of viewers who have followed the show for decades, while offering a fresh competitive twist.
The All-Star Line-up: Familiar Faces, Renewed Challenges
The cast for I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! South Africa is a curated ensemble of fan favourites and memorable personalities from past series, all returning to prove their mettle once more. This unique blend of experience and ambition promises heightened drama and unexpected alliances.
Ashley Roberts: A Life-Changing Journey Continues
Among the returning celebrities is Pussycat Dolls singer Ashley Roberts, who previously achieved second place in the 2012 series. Roberts’ initial stint on the show proved to be a pivotal moment in her life and career. "This show changed my life. I’ve lived in the UK ever since I left the jungle 14 years ago and that in itself is amazing," she reflected. Her return is fueled by a combination of excitement and apprehension: "When I got the call, I knew it was going to be nuts again, but what a beautiful gift the programme gave me and so I said yes. I’m intrigued, interested but also scared to see what I am up against now. But I know doing this show really does make you feel alive and it’s so empowering." Roberts also highlighted the appeal of a "digital detox" from the constant connectivity of modern life, a common draw for contestants. However, she admitted her primary concern remains the notoriously strict camp diet. "It is tough being in the camp. Those first few days you really miss home and it really reminds you how life is so precious and how the connections with loved ones are so meaningful. But the people in the camp really do make it and I hope there will be another group of great people I can make friends for life with. I’m looking forward to another digital detox but as far as the food goes, that was so challenging." Her sentiments echo the common experience of many celebrities who find an unexpected sense of community and perspective within the intense, isolated environment of the camp.
Sir Mo Farah: Retirement Brings New Freedom
Four-time Olympic gold medalist Sir Mo Farah, who retired from long-distance running after his 2020 appearance, is also set for a return. His perspective on the show has shifted significantly with his retirement from professional athletics. "The last time I was in there was hard, because I was still competing and you worry about what you can and can’t say. You have to be very respectful of the other athletes," he explained. Now, free from the constraints of his athletic career, Sir Mo anticipates a more open and uninhibited experience. "This time around, I am retired. I’ve got nothing to prove and I can be more open. I can talk about things in more detail like the training I used to do for my running." This newfound freedom could allow viewers to see a different, more relaxed side of the usually guarded athlete, offering deeper insights into his extraordinary career and personal journey. His willingness to share more freely could be a major draw for viewers.
A Constellation of Legends
The roster of returning stars is truly formidable, featuring a diverse array of personalities who have left their mark on the show’s history. TV personality Gemma Collins, known for her brief but memorable stint in the Australian jungle, brings her unique brand of glamour and drama. Former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt, a previous winner of the main series, is celebrated for her down-to-earth humour and relatable reactions. Champion boxer David Haye, a formidable physical presence, is sure to face challenges head-on. Comedian Seann Walsh, pop star Sinitta, Red Dwarf actor Craig Charles, and ex-footballer Jimmy Bullard add further layers of entertainment and unpredictability. The line-up is rounded out by the much-loved former football manager Harry Redknapp, who won the 2018 series with his charming anecdotes and genuine nature, and actor Adam Thomas, known for his enthusiastic and often hilarious participation in trials. This carefully selected group of returning ‘legends’ promises a dynamic and competitive series, as each celebrity aims not just to survive, but to claim the ultimate title.
The Mechanics of the Legends Series: Pre-Recorded Drama, Live Final Vote
A significant departure for I’m A Celebrity… South Africa from its traditional format is its pre-recorded nature. Unlike the live broadcasts of the regular series, which allow viewers to vote daily and influence the outcome in real-time, the majority of the South African series has been filmed in advance. This pre-recording offers production advantages, allowing for tighter editing, more controlled storytelling, and potentially more elaborate trials without the pressures of live television. However, it also means that viewer participation in the initial stages of eliminations is not possible.
To reintroduce an element of public engagement and competitive tension, a crucial new feature has been implemented for the climax of the series. For the first time in an all-star format, the viewing public will be granted the power to decide who is crowned the "ultimate legend 2026." This decision will be made during a live grand final broadcast directly from London. This innovative hybrid approach aims to combine the logistical benefits of pre-recorded content with the thrilling immediacy and audience participation that has always been a hallmark of I’m A Celebrity. The live final vote ensures that the ultimate victor is chosen by the public, adding a layer of democratic legitimacy to the ‘legend’ title and maintaining viewer investment until the very end. This mirrors the format used in the first I’m A Celebrity… South Africa series, which aired in 2023 and saw former Australian series runner-up Myleene Klass emerge as the winner, chosen by the public in a similar live final.
The Enduring Appeal and Cultural Impact of Reality Television
The enduring popularity of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! and the strategic decision to launch an all-star version in South Africa speak volumes about the pervasive appeal of celebrity reality television. Audiences are drawn to these shows for a myriad of reasons: the voyeuristic pleasure of seeing famous individuals stripped of their usual comforts, the authentic human drama that unfolds under duress, and the often unexpected revelations of personality. For many viewers, it’s a chance to see beyond the curated public image and witness moments of vulnerability, resilience, and genuine camaraderie.
Beverley Callard’s candid admission about the show’s positive impact on her self-esteem highlights a lesser-discussed but equally significant aspect of reality television – its potential for personal growth. While often criticised for superficiality, these experiences can push individuals to confront their fears, build confidence, and foster deep connections, particularly for those who, like Callard, grapple with internal struggles. Her story adds to a growing body of celebrity narratives that use their platforms to destigmatize mental health issues, encouraging broader public conversations. The show also provides a unique platform for celebrities to reinvent their public image, connect with new audiences, or simply demonstrate their authentic selves. The upcoming series promises not only entertainment through its challenging trials and celebrity dynamics but also potentially profound personal journeys for its returning legends, all vying for the esteemed title in the heart of the South African wilderness.
I’m A Celebrity… South Africa is scheduled to commence on Monday, April 6, at 9 pm on ITV1, and will be broadcast every weeknight from Monday to Friday, offering viewers a daily dose of celebrity survival and drama.
