David Haye, the 45-year-old boxer who placed third on I’m A Celebrity… South Africa, has drawn significant criticism for his behavior in camp. Accusations of bullying fellow contestant Adam Thomas, fat-shaming Gemma Collins, and making misogynistic comments have left campmates and viewers stunned. Hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly stated that Haye crossed the line from banter into discomfort.
Ant and Dec Criticize Haye’s Conduct
Ant remarked on the show’s podcast I’m A Celebrity… Unpacked, “It’s not a nice watch. He just kind of picks and picks at them.” He noted Adam’s struggles, saying, “Adam has had a bit of a tough time and he’s not coping well. Clearly the banter has got too much. But David won’t stop.” Dec added, “It’s kind of crossed the line from banter. I don’t find it comfortable to watch.”
Bullying Claims Involving Adam Thomas
Adam Thomas, 37, shared on Instagram that Haye “broke me and pushed me to my limits” during clashes in camp. The actor, battling psoriatic arthritis diagnosed in 2023, described the experience as physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. He posted, “Since coming out, I’ve taken time to process everything… He broke me in there, he pushed me to my limits, and I’ve told David this and he’s apologised and that’s that! I’ve moved on now.”
Thomas refused a Bushtucker Trial due to feeling unwell and dehydrated. Haye responded, “Who gives a s**t if he doesn’t feel well. He’s a grown-ass man. I don’t like guys who are… a bit useless. I hate them useless guys.” Campmates like Gemma Collins, Ashley Roberts, and Scarlett Moffatt defended Thomas, calling Haye’s manner uncomfortable. Beverley Callard later expressed regret, saying she was “too easy on him” and felt disappointed, as she had been a fan.
Conflicts with Gemma Collins
Haye clashed with Gemma Collins from the start. During a trial announcement for the Retching Bull challenge, Gemma selected Haye and Mo Farah. Haye complained, and when Farah opted out, Haye quipped to Gemma, “You need to eat tonight,” referencing her hunger after a previous loss. Viewers accused him of fat-shaming, with comments on X like, “Is David fat shaming Gemma AGAIN!!”
He also remarked on her thick hair, saying, “It definitely ain’t thin,” after she commented on it. Gemma told the Bush Telegraph, “I’m not always used to people dealing with me in an abrupt manner.” Haye once refused her water, escalating tensions.
Misogynistic Comments on His Girlfriend
Discussing girlfriend Sian Osborne with Scarlett Moffatt and Ashley Roberts, Haye said, “She’s lovely, she’s got the personality of a proper ugly bird.” He explained his “ugly duckling theory,” claiming less attractive women develop better personalities to compensate, while “super pretty girls are just idiots.” Scarlett reacted, “You can’t say that, David!” Ashley groaned, “Oh, dear God…”
Sources close to the couple indicate no malice, viewing it as a compliment highlighting Sian’s looks and personality. Scarlett later noted she stays in touch with others like Ashley and Gemma but not all from a camp WhatsApp group created by Haye.
Other Tensions and Throuple References
Fans highlighted a “fine line between bantering and bullying,” urging more sympathy. Haye’s past throuple—linked to Sian and reportedly Helen Flanagan, who denied it—was mentioned 11 times by hosts and campmates despite his reluctance to discuss it. Producers reportedly encouraged references to his relationships.
