Fans Slam ‘I’m A Celebrity’ Trials as ‘Disgusting’ and Call for Animal Cruelty Ban
The hit ITV show I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! is facing growing backlash from fans and animal welfare advocates over its controversial animal-based challenges. Critics are calling for these trials, which include eating live insects and parts of animals such as camel penises and pig testicles, to be scrapped, labeling them “disgusting” according to the Express.
The RSPCA has long criticized the show for its alleged “mistreatment” of animals, describing the use of live creatures in unnatural and dangerous scenarios as unethical. Last year, Dr. Ros Clubb, Head of Wildlife at the RSPCA, accused the programme of prioritizing entertainment over animal welfare, saying, “Programmes like I’m A Celebrity are still flagrantly disregarding the welfare of animals in the interest of a quick thrill.”
Dr. Clubb also urged the public to support the RSPCA’s campaign for reform, noting: “In the last four years, we’ve seen 60,000 sign-ups to our campaign, with more than 41,000 contacting Ofcom and approximately 20,000 complaining to ITV, reported by the Mirror. We are calling for the Broadcasting Code to be urgently evaluated and strengthened to help protect animals from mistreatment and abuse.”
Viewers have taken to social media to express their outrage. One user wrote: “Never watched this s***, and never will. The cruelty to/exploitation of wildlife here for human entertainment is beyond disgusting. There’s NO justification for it, and this show should have been stopped years ago.” Another added: “Ban I’m A Celeb—gratuitous violent cruelty to other creatures for entertainment!”
Charities like Project the Wild also criticized the show, arguing that portraying animals as objects is inhumane and unethical, especially when invasive species are used.
With the Online Safety Act now including measures against animal cruelty content online, campaigners believe it’s time for Ofcom’s Broadcasting Code to follow suit. The RSPCA has emphasized the need for broadcasters to set a precedent in preventing the normalization of such treatment.
Despite the criticism, the show remains a fan favorite and is set to air its latest season on November 17. This year’s celebrity lineup includes Jane Moore, Tulisa, Coleen Rooney, Barry McGuigan, YouTuber GK Barry, and Alan Halsall. New challenges, such as the “Snakes and Ladders” jungle race, are replacing older ones like the plank walk.
However, whether these changes will address growing concerns about animal welfare remains to be seen. The pressure is mounting for ITV to reevaluate its approach to entertainment.