The secrets behind casting I'm A Celebrity: From when stars are first approached to Ant and Dec's surprising input and ITV's tactic to spark on-screen comedy

Behind the Scenes of I'm A Celebrity Casting

The line-up for I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! is one of television’s best-kept secrets. Each year, ITV producers carefully select a mix of personalities designed to create drama, humor, and heartfelt moments that keep the audience watching.

How the Casting Process Begins

Casting usually starts months before the series airs. Producers quietly approach celebrities through their agents, often testing the water to see who might be interested before formal offers are made. Negotiations can take weeks, as factors like schedules, pay, and the celebrity’s public image all come into play.

Ant and Dec’s Involvement

Hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, who have fronted the show since 2002, reportedly have genuine input in the casting process. Producers consult them about potential participants, as the hosts best understand what mix of personalities will create entertaining banter and challenges in the jungle.

“They know instinctively who will work well on screen and who will bring the right energy,” shared a source close to ITV.

ITV’s Formula for Comedy and Conflict

ITV aims to achieve a careful balance of contestants — from soap actors and reality TV stars to sports figures and political personalities. This mix ensures a rich variety of reactions to jungle life. Producers also keep in mind combinations that might lead to humorous clashes or unexpected friendships.

Managing the Secrecy

Secrecy is paramount. Only a small group of ITV executives and production staff know the final line-up before it’s officially announced. Even contestants’ families are often unaware until the last moment to prevent leaks and speculation.

“The surprise element is part of the show’s magic,” a production insider noted.

Preparation Before the Jungle

Before flying to the filming location in Australia, contestants undergo a series of medical and psychological evaluations. They are also given survival guidance and media briefings to help them adjust to the demanding jungle environment.

Building Viewer Anticipation

Teasers and rumors are deliberately leaked in the weeks before the show to spark conversation online and in the press. ITV uses this tactic to drive anticipation and keep I’m A Celebrity trending across social media platforms before launch night.

Author’s summary: ITV combines secrecy, psychology, and strategic casting — with Ant and Dec’s insight — to create engaging, unpredictable entertainment in I’m A Celebrity.

Daily Mail — 2025-11-29