Simon Rimmer up for joining I’m A Celebrity 2019 after “lovely” last series

Sunday Brunch previously wanted to avoid jungle show's drama and tension

Sunday Brunch host Simon Rimmer says he wants to join I’m A Celebrity 2019 after changing his mind about the ITV show.

Simon was once dead against a stint in the Australian outback, fearing being trapped Down Under with drama-causing divas.

However, he’s now open to the idea after the latest series won huge ratings with harmonious campmates.

Fans praised the camaraderie between the likes of Fleur East, John Barrowman, runner-up Emily Atack and winner Harry Redknapp.

“I’d probably do the jungle. I always said I wouldn’t, but think I’ve become quite intrigued by that,” Simon told Express.co.uk.

“It’s a slightly different show now too – it’s a really nice warm cuddly show these days.

“In the past it always felt the jungle thrived on the tension in the camp. But this year in particular, I thought was really lovely.”

The chef’s comments came after I’m A Celebrity’s executive producer claimed the show tries to avoid conflict.

Speaking at a BAFTA Masterclass, Richard Cowles said bosses want contestants to be ‘stressed’ by jungle life, rather than each other.

“We have never casted for conflict,” he commented. “If arguments go on for too long it can get a bit dull and relentless.

“We will always try and cast for warmth and for people to get on.

“But we want it to be as stressful as it can be because that’s when you see people’s true colours and how they would react.”

Simon is no stranger to reality TV, having previously competed on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.

He partnered Karen Clifton in the 2017 series, but they were the fifth couple eliminated from the competition.

I’m A Celeb will return to our screens in November, with Ant McPartlin back presenting alongside Dec Donnelly.

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