The final of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! South Africa erupted into disorder on Friday night when Jimmy Bullard confronted hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly about the show’s editing decisions.
Bullard Accuses Adam Thomas of Aggressive Behavior
Former Premier League footballer Jimmy Bullard, who represented clubs including Wigan Athletic, Fulham, and Hull City before retiring in 2012, called out actor Adam Thomas for what he described as ‘abusive, aggressive, and intimidating’ actions during the live final trial. Recent reports suggest Bullard considers legal action against ITV, claiming broadcasters aired only a portion of the full events.
Heated Exchange with Hosts Unfolds Live
Bullard, 47, and former co-host of Sky Sports’ Soccer AM until its 2023 cancellation, shared his perspective during the live broadcast. He acknowledged his campmates might feel upset, admitting he ‘absolutely threw [Thomas] under a bus.’
Bullard declared: ‘But what I don’t stand on is some being abusive, aggressive, and intimidating.’ He addressed the hosts directly: ‘Yous were there, you had front row seats. You didn’t show none of that. You didn’t show none of the C-bombs, that’s a liberty.’
Ant McPartlin explained that ITV could not air those moments as they were ‘unbroadcastable.’ Bullard pressed: ‘Absolutely – but was it abusive, aggressive, and intimidating? What do you think?’
To Bullard’s surprise, Ant responded: ‘I was there and I didn’t think it was intimidating.’
Campmates Weigh In Amid Growing Tension
Ex-boxer David Haye, who stirred debate earlier in the final, supported Bullard’s view of Thomas but faced quick rebuke from Dec Donnelly. The host, met with audience applause, stated: ‘David, you weren’t even there – keep out of it!’
Bullard then polled fellow campmates on Thomas’ conduct. Actor Craig Charles backed Bullard, while reality star Gemma Collins—who missed the trial—defended Thomas. Ex-Premier League manager Harry Redknapp stayed silent.
Control slipped as Bullard yelled: ‘Well, show it then! It’s terrible! It’s your show! Unbelievable!’ Ant defended the editing, but singer Sinitta and Gemma Collins exited the stage amid the turmoil. Olympic legend Mo Farah urged calm: ‘Listen, let’s not spoil that moment!’
The broadcast paused for commercials shortly after. Adam Thomas claimed victory over Mo Farah but showed little joy in the announcement, likely impacted by the prior confrontation.
