For over two decades, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! has stood as one of the most grueling reality shows on television. The combination of extreme challenges, a harsh living environment, and the constant pressure of being in the spotlight has led many contestants to bow out of the competition early. From medical emergencies to personal controversies, the reasons behind these departures vary widely. Let’s delve into the stories of the campmates who left the show prematurely and why they decided to do so.
The Toughness of the Jungle
Life in the Australian jungle is no picnic. Contestants are subjected to minimal food supplies, challenging Bushtucker Trials, and the constant presence of bugs, snakes, and other wildlife. While the experience promises fame and a hefty paycheck, the mental and physical toll has proven too much for many over the years. Despite their best intentions, some celebrities have found the jungle’s challenges insurmountable. Here are the notable stories of those who left early.
- Jamie Lynn Spears – 2023
The younger sister of Britney Spears departed the jungle due to medical reasons. ITV stated she left on “medical grounds.” Later, Jamie Lynn shared that she would be taking time to recover and spend it with her family.
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Her post on social media reflected her gratitude for the journey:
“Looking forward to sharing all about my journey on @imacelebrity with everyone! Love yallll!”
- Grace Dent – 2023
Food critic Grace Dent also exited the jungle in 2023, citing medical reasons. Dent viewed her brief stint positively, reflecting on her resilience
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“I can carry a lot of logs and water uphill, build a fire, and eat hare innards at dawn for breakfast. I’ll keep alive in my heart the huge personal breakthroughs.”
- Olivia Attwood – 2022
Love Island star Olivia Attwood shocked fans by quitting within 24 hours. ITV announced her departure was due to medical advice, stating further investigation was needed before she could safely return to camp.
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Olivia later disclosed the underlying cause of her exit on This Morning:
“I was anemic and had low potassium levels.”
Despite her short stay, Olivia left a memorable impression.
- Richard Madeley – 2021
Veteran TV presenter Richard Madeley left the jungle after a health scare. He was taken to the hospital after falling ill and later explained on Good Morning Britain
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“I think what happened to me was I got dehydrated. Dehydration is actually quite disturbing.”
- Jack Maynard – 2017
YouTuber Jack Maynard’s departure came amid controversy. Just two days into his jungle journey, old tweets containing racist and homophobic language resurfaced. His publicist explained
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“Given his position as a contestant, he has been unable to respond to the allegations. It was agreed that it would be better to bring him out of the show.”
Maynard later issued a public apology, expressing regret for his past actions:
“I’m sorry to anyone that I upset, anyone I offended, and anyone I made feel uncomfortable.”
- Spencer Matthews – 2015
Reality star Spencer Matthews left after six days, admitting to taking steroid-based medication before entering the jungle. He stated
(ITV)
“When I started this program of pills, it was in preparation for a charity boxing match which, ironically, never took place.”
Spencer acknowledged his mistake, calling it a “serious error.”
- Lady Colin Campbell – 2015
Lady Colin Campbell’s time in the jungle was marked by controversy. She clashed with fellow contestants and refused to participate in certain tasks. Ultimately,
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ITV announced her exit was for medical reasons. Despite her early departure, her fiery personality made her a memorable participant.
- Gemma Collins – 2014
Gemma Collins is famous for lasting just three days in the jungle. Initially, she cited unhappiness as her reason for leaving, joking:
“People who murder get treated better than this.
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Years later, however, she revealed a deeper reason behind her exit. On Instagram, she disclosed:
“I was robbed and physically attacked 24 hours before leaving for Australia. I was in a terrible state of shock as you can imagine.”
- Craig Charles – 2014
Actor Craig Charles, best known for his role on Coronation Street, left the show under tragic circumstances. The sudden death of his brother prompted him to leave the jungle and return to the UK. ITV expressed their condolences:
(ITV)
“Craig decided to leave the camp earlier today. We send our sincere condolences to Craig and his family.”
- Brian Conley – 2012
Comedian Brian Conley’s exit stemmed from health complications, including malnourishment and exhaustion. He revealed:
“I found out I was malnourished and suffering from exhaustion. It was out of my control—it was the producers’ decision.
(ITV)
Conley also spoke about the difficulty of managing his medication in such extreme conditions.
11. Freddie Starr’s Short-Lived Journey in 2011
The late comedian Freddie Starr made headlines when he quit the jungle after just three days due to an allergic reaction during a Bushtucker Trial. Known for his sharp wit and humor, Starr’s exit disappointed many fans.
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Despite his early departure, Freddie expressed his regret, stating:
“I was sick not to finish the show. I wanted to be there until the very end, but there’s no use crying over spilt milk.”
His abrupt exit serves as a reminder of the unpredictable health risks participants face in the jungle.
- Nigel Havers’ Double Departure in 2010
Nigel Havers, a seasoned actor, made his disdain for jungle life clear during his stint. His first departure occurred when he refused to participate in a task involving an electric shock.
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After briefly returning, Havers left again, signaling his firm disinterest in continuing the competition. His exit highlights how even seasoned performers can find certain challenges unbearable.
- Katie Price’s Second Attempt in 2009
Katie Price, also known as Jordan, made a return to the jungle in 2009 after her first appearance in 2004. However, her second stint didn’t last long, as she quit after just a week.
(ITV)
Overwhelmed by the relentless Bushtucker Trials, she candidly shared:
“People can see I’m genuine. I just don’t want to be here anymore.”
Her decision reflected a sense of personal honesty, prioritizing her mental well-being over the competition.
- George Hamilton’s Graceful Exit in 2009
Unlike many early exits due to hardship, Hollywood actor George Hamilton left the jungle under more calculated circumstances. Less than a week before the final, he explained to his fellow campmate Kim Woodburn:
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“They’re people who are starting careers. I’m at a point where this is fun to do. I’m not going to go head-to-head, so I’m thinking about leaving.”
Hamilton’s departure showcased a pragmatic and reflective approach, emphasizing his contentment with his life and career.
- Kimberley Davies’ Injury in 2005
The Australian actress and former Neighbours star, Kimberley Davies, faced a terrifying experience during one of the show’s infamous Bushtucker Trials.
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After jumping 15 feet from a helicopter to hit a target floating in the water, she fractured her ribs. Her injury forced her to leave the show, highlighting the physical dangers contestants often face.
- Elaine Lordan’s Health Scare in 2005
Known for her role in EastEnders, Elaine Lordan’s time in the jungle was tragically cut short due to health concerns. After collapsing twice within 24 hours, producers decided it was best for her to leave the competition. An ITV spokesperson explained:
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“We have given a great deal of thought and consideration to Elaine’s situation and have decided that she won’t be returning to the jungle.”
Her story underscores the potential toll the jungle’s harsh conditions can take on a contestant’s health.
- Brian Harvey’s Heated Exit in 2004
The East 17 singer’s time on the show came to an abrupt end following a heated exchange with journalist Janet Street-Porter. While the official reason for his departure remains unknown, the tension between the two campmates likely played a significant role.
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Harvey’s exit serves as a reminder of the intense interpersonal dynamics that can develop under the stress of jungle life.
- Natalie Appleton’s Struggle in 2004
For Natalie Appleton of All Saints, the sheer number of Bushtucker Trials proved too overwhelming.
(ITV)
Her early departure was attributed to the pressure of consistently facing these challenges, making her one of the many contestants who found the show’s physical demands too much to bear.
- John Lydon’s Unconventional Reason in 2004
Punk icon John Lydon, also known as Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols, brought his rebellious spirit to the jungle. However, after 11 days, he quit, citing two rather unexpected reasons: boredom and missing chocolate.
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While his reasoning may seem lighthearted, it reflects how even small discomforts can feel amplified in the jungle’s intense environment.
- Daniella Westbrook’s Emotional Departure in 2003
Daniella Westbrook holds the distinction of being the first-ever contestant to leave I’m A Celebrity early. She struggled with being so far away from home, ultimately deciding that the emotional toll was too much to endure.
(ITV)
Westbrook’s departure paved the way for future contestants to make similar decisions when faced with personal challenges.
Why Early Exits Matter
Early departures might seem disappointing for fans and contestants alike, but they often serve as some of the most memorable moments on the show. They highlight the reality of the jungle experience, showing viewers that it’s not all fun and games. These stories also provide insight into the human side of the celebrities, allowing audiences to connect with them on a deeper level.
Moreover, early exits often shape the narrative of the season. Whether it’s through dramatic moments, unexpected alliances, or heartfelt farewells, these departures leave a lasting impact on the show’s legacy.
Reflecting on Resilience and Vulnerability
The jungle is a place where resilience is tested and vulnerabilities are exposed. Each early exit, whether due to health issues, personal reasons, or clashes with other contestants, adds another layer to the show’s compelling narrative. For those who leave early, their stories serve as a testament to the challenges of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and into one of the most demanding environments on television.
As I’m A Celebrity continues to captivate audiences, these early departures remain an integral part of the show’s legacy, reminding viewers of the courage it takes to face the jungle—even if only for a few days.
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