The broadcaster returns to the UK after becoming the first contestant voted off the series.
Alex Scott has departed Australia earlier than expected following her exit from I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, making the decision to immediately return to the UK to support her partner, singer Jess Glynne, whose mother recently underwent major brain surgery.
The 41-year-old sports presenter and former professional footballer was the first celebrity voted out during Friday night’s episode of the ITV reality series.
However, viewers quickly noticed something unusual when Scott stepped onto the famous jungle bridge and was not greeted by Glynne — a tradition typically observed when contestants leave camp.
Speaking after her exit, Scott revealed that she felt an immediate instinct that something was wrong when she saw her partner was not waiting for her. The news confirmed her fears that Glynne’s mother, Alexandra, had suffered complications following a serious stroke that led to emergency surgical intervention.
Scott explained that she almost turned down the opportunity to join the series after hearing the devastating family news. She revealed that it was Glynne who convinced her to continue with the commitment, even during such a difficult period.
“It has been a hard couple of months, but Jess said she wanted me to go on the show and do it for her mum,” Scott shared emotionally.
“It’s been tough because I wanted to enjoy the wrap party and everything that comes with the experience, but I have to get home straight away.”
She continued:
“She’s my Jessica, and I’m going home to be her rock. My campmates knew what I was going through and I want to thank everyone at ITV and my campmates because they have shown me so much support.”
As per the usual format, eliminated contestants remain in Australia until the final episode airs. However, ITV confirmed Scott was granted special permission to break protocol and return to London.
Shortly after Scott’s departure episode aired, Jess Glynne addressed fans directly via Instagram, explaining the seriousness of her mother’s condition and why she had been unable to travel to greet Scott.
“Over the last few weeks my mum suffered a major stroke and needed urgent surgery,” Glynne wrote.
“It’s been a really serious, life-altering time for my family, and I’ve had to stay close to home. Alex would always want me to be where I’m needed most. I can’t wait to have her back by my side.”
The couple spoke privately immediately following Scott’s interview with hosts Ant and Dec. Scott revealed that Glynne reassured her but also expressed frustration that the broadcaster was not shown more onscreen.
“My woman might be out far earlier than she ever deserved, but I’m unbelievably proud of her. She didn’t get the airtime to show how incredible she really is,” Glynne wrote.
Alex Scott Reflects on Her Time in Camp
Scott spoke candidly about her experience and admitted she rarely puts herself in the spotlight, which may have contributed to her limited screen time.
“Maybe they thought I was too boring,” she said with a laugh, noting that she tends to keep things low-key compared with some of the louder personalities on this year’s cast.
Despite leaving early, Scott said she remains grateful for the friendships and resilience she gained in camp.
“Everyone has been so supportive. I’m proud I gave it a go and showed up even when life was really hard. Now it’s time to go home and be there for my family.”
Support has since flooded social media, with fans praising Scott’s composure, strength, professionalism and decision to prioritise family.
As the series continues, the focus shifts from the competition to the real-life emotional reality behind the scenes — a reminder that even high-profile television events take place against the backdrop of deeply personal human challenges.