I’m A Celeb bosses left ‘angry’ and ‘confused’ by Christine McGuinness for suggesting she’d landed a spot on this year’s show despite not being in the lineup.
Christine McGuinness left fans and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! bosses “angry” and “confused” after seemingly suggesting she had secured a spot on this year’s reality series—despite not being included in the official lineup.
The 37-year-old television personality and former Celebs Go Dating star addressed speculation about her participation during the Pride of Britain Awards in October, prompting widespread media coverage.
Christine revealed that she is approached every year to join the hit ITV show but admitted that the idea of leaving her three children and traveling to Australia had always been daunting.
“Trying to get over to the jungle might be a bit of a mission,” she explained, noting her concerns about being away from home, her sensory issues, and her fears of creepy crawlies.
Despite these reservations, Christine added: “This year most likely I’d be like f** it, why not,”* which many interpreted as confirmation that she would be heading to the Australian jungle.
However, when ITV unveiled the full contestant list this week—including stars such as Kelly Brook, Jack Osbourne, and Martin Kemp—Christine’s name was notably absent, leaving producers reportedly frustrated.
A TV insider told the Daily Mail that ITV executives were bewildered by Christine’s remarks, suggesting she should have clarified the speculation rather than hinting at her involvement.
“Usually, a celebrity would shut down speculation, so Christine appearing to confirm her appearance really infuriated those working behind the scenes,” the source said.
Another source close to Christine added that she is often named in yearly I’m A Celebrity rumours, but that participating would be challenging due to her family commitments.
“The reality is, it would be very difficult for her to be away from her children for that length of time,” the insider explained. “That said, never say never—maybe one day she’ll be up for the challenge.”
Christine herself told the Daily Mail, “I always get asked and it is one of those shows, every year, would you ever do it? And I always say there’s no way, I don’t think I could be away from my children.” She emphasized the personal hurdles that would make the show difficult, including flying outside Europe for the first time and confronting her sensory sensitivities.
Christine shares three children with ex-husband and BBC presenter Paddy McGuinness: twins Penelope and Leo, and daughter Felicity. Despite splitting from Paddy in 2022 after a decade of marriage, the pair continue to co-parent their children at their Cheshire home.
Both Christine and Paddy have been vocal about raising awareness for autism, having documented aspects of their children’s lives in television projects.
Christine has also shared her personal journey, speaking publicly about her own autism and ADHD diagnoses, aiming to increase understanding of neurodiverse conditions.
Earlier this year, Christine appeared briefly on E4’s Celebs Go Dating, where she explored relationships with women, highlighting her fluid approach to dating in her youth.
She ultimately left the show mid-series, citing difficulty navigating public scrutiny so soon after her divorce from Paddy. Christine described the experience as overwhelming and admitted she regretted signing up due to the intense attention it brought.
Known for her candidness and “free spirit” identity, Christine continues to remain open with her fans about her personal life, relationships, and parenting journey.
While she will not be part of I’m A Celebrity 2025, her statements have nonetheless sparked online conversation and speculation about her potential future participation.
The Daily Mail has reached out to ITV and Christine’s representatives for comment regarding the confusion over her supposed involvement.