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The jungle calls, and a new champion has emerged. Danny Jones, the charismatic McFly musician, has been crowned ITV’s latest King of the Jungle, marking a thrilling conclusion to another season of trials, tribulations, and unexpected camaraderie.
But the echoes of past victories linger in the Australian wilderness. Let's journey back through the years, revisiting the iconic moments and unforgettable personalities who have claimed the coveted crown of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
It all began in 2002, when radio legend Tony Blackburn, a sprightly 61, navigated the initial challenges of the jungle. Despite being the oldest contestant, he found a surprising sense of calm amidst the unfamiliar surroundings, ultimately proving his resilience and claiming the first-ever title. A modest 7.58 million viewers witnessed his triumph, a testament to the budding appeal of the reality show.
The following year, former cricketer Phil Tufnell, a youthful 37, battled his way to victory, showcasing a competitive spirit and a hearty appetite for celebration – marked by an ice-cold pint and a proper coronation, a step up from Tony’s champagne toast. This season also marked the last summer run for the show and the shortest season to date, lasting only 15 days.
2004 saw a seismic shift as Kerry Katona, a rising star, captivated the nation and became the first Queen of the Jungle. The show was at its peak, dominating ITV’s schedule, and the season was a whirlwind of drama, from Katie Price and Peter Andre’s blossoming romance to the infamous clashes with Sex Pistols vocalist Johnny Rotten. A staggering 14.9 million viewers tuned in to witness Kerry’s coronation, solidifying the show’s place in popular culture.
The annual tradition continued, with comedian Joe Pasquale claiming victory in 2004 amidst a season known for its notoriously difficult Bushtucker Trials. Natalie Appleton’s early departure and Brian Harvey’s spat with Janet Street-Porter added to the drama, though viewership dipped slightly from Kerry’s record-breaking win.
A surprise awaited in 2005 as Margaret Thatcher’s daughter, Carol Thatcher, defied expectations and emerged victorious. Despite the controversial reputation of her mother, Carol won over the public, proving that charm and resilience could conquer even the most formidable odds. EastEnders actress Elaine Lordan’s dramatic exit, carried out on a stretcher after fainting twice, added a touch of the unexpected.
2006 saw another musical triumph as Busted singer Matt Willis joined the ranks of jungle royalty. He faced down a baby alligator and outmaneuvered Hear’Say’s Myleene Klass and Jason Donovan, though the season marked a slight dip in viewership, perhaps overshadowed by Myleene’s iconic white bikini shower photos.
Christopher Biggins, a larger-than-life personality, reigned supreme in 2007, charming viewers with his wit and willingness to embrace the jungle’s challenges. Despite arriving late to the camp, he proved a formidable competitor, though ratings continued their downward trend.
EastEnders star Joe Swash swept to victory in 2008, delighting viewers and securing a lasting connection with the show, eventually leading to his role as host of I’m A Celebrity: Extra Camp. The season’s success breathed new life into the series, with ratings climbing to their highest point in three years.
TV chef Gino D’Acampo brought his culinary skills to the jungle in 2009, quickly establishing himself as the camp’s resident cook. His victory, alongside Kim Woodburn and Jimmy White, marked a resurgence in popularity, with ratings climbing to a peak not seen since the show’s early days.
2010 marked a turning point, as Stacey Solomon became the Queen of the Jungle, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and unwavering spirit. The season was packed with memorable moments, most notably Gillian McKeith’s dramatic fainting spell, and viewership soared to a remarkable 10.36 million.
McFly returned to the jungle in 2011, with Dougie Poynter claiming victory over Mark Wright in a close and heartfelt final. The season was also notable for Freddie Starr’s unfortunate departure due to malnutrition and exhaustion.
Charlie Brooks, an EastEnders favorite, secured the crown in 2012, narrowly defeating Ashley Roberts in a nail-biting finale. Brian Conley’s early exit due to exhaustion added to the drama, and ratings continued to hold steady.
Former motorbike racer Carl Fogarty dominated the 2014 season, achieving a perfect record in Bushtucker Trials and earning the title of King of the Jungle. The season’s success helped revitalize viewership after a slight dip in previous years.
2015 saw Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison crowned Queen of the Jungle, transforming her image and captivating audiences with her determination. The season was marked by controversy, with Spencer Matthews’ departure and Lady Colin Campbell’s tumultuous relationship with Duncan Bannatyne.
Scarlett Moffatt’s triumph in 2016 was a heartwarming story of perseverance and self-discovery. Her early mishap – falling headfirst out of a canoe – only endeared her further to viewers, and ratings climbed to a respectable level.
Georgia Toffolo charmed the nation in 2017, becoming the Queen of the Jungle with her sweet nature and close bond with Stanley Johnson. The season also saw the controversial departure of Jack Maynard.
Football legend Harry Redknapp stole hearts in 2018, winning the public over with his love for his wife Sandra and his insatiable craving for jam roly-polys. The season was a ratings juggernaut, attracting the highest viewership in over a decade.
Jacqueline Jossa, an EastEnders star, emerged victorious in 2019, beating Andy Whyment and Roman Kemp in a close final. The season was a bittersweet moment for both Jacqueline and Andy, who shared a mutual respect and admiration for each other.
In 2020, the show made history by relocating to a Welsh castle due to the pandemic, with Giovanna Fletcher becoming the first Queen of the Castle. The season was a welcome distraction during a challenging time, with ratings reaching a peak not seen in years.
2021 saw the return to Wales and the crowning of Emmerdale’s Danny Miller, who triumphed over Simon Gregson. The season was marked by Richard Madeley’s unexpected departure due to illness.
Myleene Klass returned to claim her title in 2023’s all-star season, proving that some jungle legends are destined for greatness. The season’s unique format, however, resulted in a slight dip in viewership.
And now, in 2024, Danny Jones has etched his name into I’m A Celebrity history, continuing the legacy of jungle champions past. The adventure continues, and the call of the wild echoes on.
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