In the final episode of the ITVBe show, Joe Blackman’s ex-boyfriend Junaid Ahmed and Harry Derbidge’s ex-boyfriend, Joe Blackman, made their eyes water. TOWIE OG Harry opens up about recovering from Joe and Junaid’s betrayal, the enormous public support he has received, and he reveals to OK! as the 90-minute Christmas special filming kicks off. that he’s connected with someone new but they’re based down under. Harry, 30, also tells us his festive plans, which include letting his hair down and shaking off a difficult year with his cousin, Amy Childs…
Hi, Harry! How are you? At the conclusion of the previous series, you were heartbroken…
I am in such a better place. In Cyprus, when it all happened, I don’t even remember it… I was there but not there. I’m so happy that I’ve overcome this. Time is a healer. The situation will always leave me with scars, and those scars will continue to be with me as I enter new relationships. However, I’m pleased that two people have revealed their true selves to me. I initially believed I would be in a bad place right now, but I’m fortunate that I managed to come together.
Joe Blackman and Dave Benett (Getty Images for Sol de Janeiro) were previously involved in dating.
His former best friend, Junaid Ahmed, is now with Joe – leaving Harry feeling betrayed (Dave Benett/Getty Images for Maybelline)
You’ve had a lot of support, haven’t you?
After an episode, I went through my phone and received thousands of messages. My Instagram has never experienced this much explosion. It was both overwhelming and incredible at the same time. There were so many people who were able to relate to my experiences. I assumed this to be something extraordinary. Your best friend and your boyfriend have never been in a million years, in my opinion. I didn’t think people lived like that. But honestly, people are messaging, going, “My husband left me for my best friend…” there were so many. I really appreciated the support and love I received.
You’re looking well, too…
I am working on myself. I’ve been working out a lot lately. just to improve my appearance and feel better. I want to feel the best on my next TOWIE beach trip. I was so comfy in a relationship, I kind of let myself go. So it’s time to be the best version possible.
How have you found it, filming with Joe and Junaid?
This Christmas special only has one appearance for me so far. That’s going to change today. There’s a lot of stuff that happened. The last time we saw TOWIE everyone was on the phone, going, “They’ve broken up…” I look at them and think, “You ain’t real”. They may try to hurt me or rub my face, but I’m just a little bit of a victim. I will never forgive them, ever. And Joe’s apology was not a genuine apology. He apologized, and he later called me a liar. I just walked off with my head in the end. I am proud of myself. The person you last saw on screen? I’ve changed a lot since then. I turned my back, smiled, and continued on as usual after they had to walk in yesterday. They don’t hurt me any more.
Have the cast members been very supportive of you?
It was a clear right or wrong. The fact that they play victims around? I have blocked them so I don’t see their stuff]on social media]. It doesn’t mean people don’t screen shot it and send it to me, so I have made a rule now with the girls, saying send me nothing, I don’t want to see it. The day I accepted it happened… I woke up. I was so hurt and worked up and wasn’t sleeping. In the mirror, I accepted it and looked at myself. The day I did that was a blessing. It made me really happy. Without them, my life improved. They were problems.
On screen, the scenes that showed Junaid and Joe getting together while the latter separated from Harry (ITV) were played, leading to viewers reaching out to him with support.
Is there anyone new on the horizon?
I am seeing someone. It is early days. It is so early, we haven’t even met! He lives on the other side of the world, in Australia. I’m going on a first date for two weeks. I’ve never been. I’m dreading the flight, I’ve never been on one that long. The first part lasts eight hours, the second thirteen. It is a new chapter. I’m still single, but there is someone who texts every day. We have dates over FaceTime. He is very handsome. I’ll take my time. It is the other side of the world, so it can’t be rushed!
With Girlband 2.0, do you still manage to get along?
The girls and I continue to be Girlband 2.0. That is still going strong. Ella [Rae Wise] may be feeling a little guilty about not being there for me; we’ll talk about that at some point. I don’t have bad feelings towards Ella. I am aware that relationships and friendships change as people go through them. I don’t take it personally. Put her and Dan]Edgar] aside, or me and the girls aside. When Ella needed someone, I was there, but when I needed her she wasn’t there. It doesn’t need to get aggy or blow up, but there’s a conversation that needs to be had.
And have you and Freddie]Bentley] made up?
I’ve been getting on really well with Freddie. We really bonded. It was just natural. We were chatty and in a nice way, we’re friends. We laugh at a lot of the same things because we are so similar. We could use more of that because we were bouncing off each other. And Arg]James ‘ Arg ‘ Argent] is back! That’s exciting. Another OG: We are now four people. Me, Amy, Lauren]Goodger] and Arg. Perhaps we should return more!
What are your plans for Christmas?
I’m going to be home for Christmas Day, we’re going to a restaurant with all the family, my mum, brother, auntie, everyone. Amy’s having dinner at home with Billy]Delbosq, her partner] and his family and then I’ll meet her in the evening for some drinks and games! She’ll let her hair fall before going to bed with the children.
In response to the ongoing investigation into Gregg Wallace’s alleged behavior on the set of MasterChef, TV legend Carol Vorderman has posted a cryptic social media post.
Former allegations of misconduct against Wallace, 60, are currently being investigated by the outside world because he has taken a step back from hosting the BBC cooking show.
The MasterChef host faces new harassment allegations, including touching a woman’s bottom at an event and pressing his crotch against another while filming on a different show, allegations he vehemently denies.
His attorneys have previously argued that Wallace’s allegations that he engages in sexually harassing behavior are “entirely false,” and Wallace has vehemently refuted any such claims. Now, former Countdown star Carol, 63, has shared her opinion on the allegations made against Wallace. As she investigated toxic TV culture, the TV presenter urged that “things like this don’t happen just once.”
Carol was previously fired from a TV series for exposing a man’s behavior (Getty Images).
Gregg Wallace’s alleged conduct is currently under investigation by the BBC (greggawallace/Instagram)
Taking to Threads, she wrote: “People always know. Things like this don’t happen just once…. ever. There is always a pattern. And others knew and did nothing. As they say in a wider context. The only thing that good people have to do is NOTHING, in order for evil (bad things) to prevail.
It comes after Carol revealed that she had complained about bad behavior and was fired from a show. The former Countdown presenter warns that Wallace misconduct allegations are just the tip of the iceberg in a systemic-problemed industry. She said: “It’s about keeping people down, particularly women. And it’s not just Gregg Wallace. This kind of behaviour is widespread, and it’s been happening for years”.
The actress recalls a situation where she was never invited back after complaining about inappropriate behavior on a show. She said: “I’ve made complaints, you may not be surprised to hear, about various people. Well, obviously, I get sacked. However, I can’t remember the show I was on in the past couple of years because I complained about someone and never appeared again. It’s still happening today”.
Carol claims to have first-hand knowledge of the ingrained culture of protecting stars while ignoring the mistreatment of those who are beneath them during her long television career. You see this pattern of people speaking up too loudly, she said. If you’re the first one to make a complaint, you’re branded a troublemaker, and it’s incredibly difficult to get heard. Particularly if you’re just starting out, people are afraid to lose their jobs. If you stick your head above the parapet, you risk everything”.
Additionally, Carol says female colleagues have frequently contacted her for assistance navigating abusive and exploitative practices in the industry because she is acutely aware of the difficulties facing younger women trying to make it in television. She continues, “I get a lot of women in TV who just want to know how to survive. I tell them, ‘ You’ve got to play the game, even if it’s not right’. But it’s hard, and it’s not just about sexual harassment. Its culture conceals the truth and keeps women at ease.
The latest series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! returned to Australia with a bang – providing fans with a star-studded line-up from Tulisa Contostavlos to Coleen Rooney. It has been filled with twists and turns, including a surprise early exit for Tulisa who appeared to eliminate all reference to the show from her social media after she was the third to be voted out.
Maura Higgins’ late arrival spurred up more drama as she made reference to her ongoing fling with Strictly’s Pete Wicks. The former Love Island star was the sixth to be voted out on Thursday night. The remaining campmates faced the popular Cyclone challenge just this weekend before eating their last supper as the series now ends on a high.
As viewers prepare to crown the latest King or Queen of the Jungle tonight, we take a look at the previous winners and find out what they’re up to now…
Sam Thompson (Series 23, 2023)
Former reality star Sam Thompson was crowned King of the Jungle in 2023, with Tony Bellew and Nigel Farage finishing in second and third place respectively. Of the three finalists, Thompson was the bookmakers’ favourite to win.
The reality star and DJ, who has ADHD, endeared himself to many viewers with his positive personality and attitude. He shared a sweet moment with his best friend Pete Wicks on the bridge following his win.
And the pair still remain best friends, with Sam currently supporting Pete on his Strictly journey from afar as he hosts I’m A Celeb’s new spin-off show Down Under. His partner Zara McDermott shared sweet snaps of the couple on Instagram this week as she said she couldn’t wait to get him back home.
Jill Scott (Series 22, 2022)
Jill became the 2022 Queen of the Jungle ( ITV1/UNPIXS)
Footballer Jill Scott took home the title of Queen of the Jungle when the show returned to Australia after two years away. She retired from football in 2022 but has continued to keep a close eye on the sport. Jill has been a pundit for many matches including England Men’s Euros qualifying games against Malta and North Macedonia, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
This year, she became the first female player to captain England for Soccer Aid. Away from football, Jill owns a coffee shop in Manchester with her fiancée Shelly Unitt.
Danny Miller (Series 21, 2021)
Danny was the second winner of I’m A Celebrity set in Wales ( Kieron McCarron/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale star Danny Miller was crowned King of the Castle for the show’s second year in Wales. He beat Coronation Street’s Simon Gregson and The Saturdays’ Frankie Bridge to the crown. Shortly after his castle stint, Danny returned to Emmerdale briefly as Aaron Dingle, where he went back to the Dales to make up with his sister Liv.
Although Aaron promised his family he was back for good, it was too good to be true as the character made a dramatic exit as part of the soap’s 50th anniversary storyline. As Danny discussed his brief return to the soap, he revealed his busy schedule wouldn’t allow him to be in the Dales for long, but is open to coming back.
He told Leeds Live: “I’ve got a few things on at the end of the year – including a pantomime and other stuff. Then I’ve got a job, so it is just not the right time. But I’m not one of those actors who says ‘that’s it now, I’ve shelved it’.”
Giovanna Fletcher (Series 20, 2020)
Giovanna was the first Queen of the Castle ( Kieron McCarron/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Giovanna was the first celeb to be crowned Queen of the Castle. The author and blogger, 38, won the nation’s hearts with her appearance on the hit ITV show – which was relocated to Wales amid the pandemic. Giovanna’s career has gone from strength to strength since her castle stint.
She has continued to write books and present her podcast and took to the stage in a production of 2:22 – A Ghost Story. Giovanna played the role of Jenny, which has also been played by Cheryl, Jaime Winstone, Mandip Gill, Laura Whitmore, at the Gielgud Theatre following its run at the Noel Coward Theatre. In 2022, Giovanna fronted her own travel show, titled Giovanna Fletcher: Made In Italy, where she and her family take a trip to Italy to relive some of her most precious moments from her childhood and explore their roots.
Jacqueline Jossa (Series 19, 2019)
Jacqueline won the show in 2019 ( ITV/REX)
She put on a united front with husband Dan Osborne after her win ( James Gourley/ITV/REX)
Poor Jacqueline had a rough ride in the jungle after campmate Myles Stephenson apparently told the actress her husband Dan Osbourne had had a thing with his ex, Gabby Allen. Upon being crowned queen, Jac broke down and vowed that she would be seen as a ‘doormat’ no more and became the first winner to cancel all interviews.
She and Dan hit back at the naysayers, sharing a cute holiday snap and assuring fans that the ‘past is in the past’. She wrote: “We have gone through a very long journey, to be where we are today. Happy. Anyone that thinks differently, don’t Comment negative comments unless you want to be blocked.”
She continued: “You do not know the ins and outs of what we have both been through, to get to a good place now. I am proud to be with my husband, stand strong and keep our family together. I will not let stupid comments pull me back to the past and dampen my sparkle!! I’m past it and you all need to be in order to follow me. Thanks!! Obvs love all you positive ppl that just get life!!️ thanking you!”
The couple went on to buy a swanky £1.2 million mansion in Essex, where they now live with their two daughters Ella, eight, and Mia, five. Jacqueline now regularly collaborates with fast fashion brand In The Style to create collections and is due to reprise her role in EastEnders as Lauren Branning.
Jacqueline recently revealed her visit to Walford will not be a flying one. “I haven’t actually come on at all and spoken about the fact I am going back to EastEnders. How wild is that?” she told her 3.6 million fans on Instagram. “I haven’t spoken about it at all. It’s as permanent as anyone there is permanent,” she explained. “Obviously, you can get written out at any time but yeah, it’s not a flying visit this time, it’s back back.”
Harry Redknapp (Series 18, 2018)
Harry Redknapp won the show despite never watching it before ( ITV)
Football manager Harry had never watched I’m a Celeb before and had no idea what was involved, but decided to sign up anyway. From the get go he was a favourite among his fellow campmates and viewers at home, with everyone instantly warming to his down-to-earth nature and humour.
He talked frequently about his wife of 54 years, Sandra, and their blissfully happy relationship they’d began when they were just 17. They recently sold their Sandbanks four-storey mansion in the lavish Millionaire’s Row to build to Sandra’s ‘dream home’ nearby. Harry and Sandra recently released a joint book, When Harry Met Sandra, which explores their more than 50 year-long romance.
Georgia ‘Toff’ Toffolo (Series 17, 2017)
Toff was crowned I’m A Celebrity jungle queen in 2017 ( James Gourley/REX/Shutterstock)
Her family was there to celebrate with her ( ExpressStar)
Georgia came into the public eye though E4 reality series Made in Chelsea where she was used to living the high life. Despite her privately educated background and Conservative political views, Toff was a down to earth campmate and popular among her fellow celebrities and fans, too.
She beat Iain Lee and Jamie Lomas to the title and couldn’t have been more shocked. She’s also starred in Celebs Go Dating and landed herself a presenting slot on This Morning. Toff’s used the dosh from winning wisely and has bought two holiday homes in Devon, where she was brought up.
The MIC star has recently started dating BrewDog businessman James Watt – revealing she met the millionaire after a mutual friend set them up on a blind date over the summer not long after she split with fraudster ex George Cottrell. She has since gone Instagram official with him and has admitted she hopes their romance will last.
“I would love him to be ‘The One’, but hey, so far, so good,” Toff confessed to the Daily Mail. “I don’t know. It is still very early days, but we’re really happy. I think I knew [how strong their connection was] from the second date. I mean it was just classic James and I. The first date was like, stereotypical, really lovely time, knew I really liked him, great.”
Scarlett Moffatt (Series 16, 2016)
Scarlett had success after her stint on the show ( ITV)
After the success of Channel 4’s Gogglebox, Scarlett Moffatt also emerged victorious from the Aussie jungle. Her win brought her to the attention of hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, who took their fellow Geordie under their wings. She co-hosted Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway in 2017 and 2018, helmed a reboot of iconic dating show Streetmate, and returned to the jungle to co-host Extra Camp for series 17.
Scarlett has continued her hosting career as she fronts ITV’s Love Bites as well as her own podcast Scarlett Moffat Wants To Believe. She also fronted a documentary on Tourette’s in 2022.
Since winning the show, Scarlett has also enjoyed a lot of happiness and success in her personal life. In June 2023 she gave birth to her first child, a baby boy named Jude. She shares the tot with her policeman beau Scott Dobinson. Months after welcoming their bundle of joy, Scarlett announced the pair have got engaged.
The Gogglebox star took to Instagram in November 2023 to share the joyful news, much to the excitement of her adoring online fanbase. “Mondays are my new favourite day,” she captioned the post, which shows the words ‘Marry Me’ illuminated in block letters across their living room.
Vicky Pattison (Series 15, 2015)
Vicky went on the show after leaving Geordie Shore
Vicky Pattison seemingly hoped I’m A Celeb would elevate her fledgling career after quitting Geordie Shore. She reinvented herself as a fitness guru and was hired to present spin-off show Extra Camp in 2016 before being swiftly replaced by Scarlett Moffatt after just one season.
In 2018 she starred in the Aussie version of the show and partnered with Dom Joly on Celebrity Haunted, and last year saw her take part in Celebrity Coach Trip. In 2022, Vicky got engaged to beau Ercan Ramadan after a romantic proposal in Dubai.
Carl Fogarty (Series 14, 2014)
Carl Fogarty won the 2014 series ( Nigel Wright)
Superbike champion Carl “Foggy” Fogarty was the winner of series 14 after chowing down on a camel penis and ostrich anus in the live final. Since winning the show, Foggy has been something of a matchmaker – setting up fellow contestant and X Factor star Jake Quickenden with his own daughter, Danielle.
Foggy had previously said he worried his daughter was “fussy” in terms of men. Things didn’t work out between Jake and Danielle, though as The X Factor star has now gone on to marry Sophie Church. The pair also share a son together while Jake is a proud stepdad to Sophie’s son from a previous romance.
Meanwhile, Carl isn’t the only one in his family to have enjoyed a stint on reality TV since his I’m A Celebrity appearance. Foggy’s daughter Claudia, entered the Love Island villa on the winter series of the ITV dating show earlier this year. She sparked a romance with Casey O’Gorman in the villa but it soon came to an end after his head was turned.
Kian Egan (Series 13, 2013)
The Westlife star won in 2013 ( ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Westlife star Kian Egan featured in the 2013 series after his band split and the girl group he managed (named Wonderland) failed. After winning the show he released his debut solo album which reached a modest number 9 in the UK charts. He has gone on to star as a coach on The Voice of Ireland (the Irish version of The Voice), tied-the-knot with actress and Wonderland singer Jodi Albert, and is now a proud father of two sons.
Meanwhile, Westlife have continued to release music and tour after reforming in 2018. Kian is back singing with Nicky Byrne, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan – and their 2021 album, Wildest Dreams, reached Number 2 in the charts both in the UK and Ireland. The band continue to go from strength to strength and will tour the USA and Canada for the first time ever in 2024.
Charlie Brooks (Series 12, 2012)
Charlie took home the crown back in 2012
EastEnders beauty Charlie Brooks scooped the jungle crown in 2012. Best known for playing Janine Butcher on the BBC soap before her stint in the jungle, Charlie continued to play the character until 2014. She has appeared in a couple of other TV shows including Suspects and featured on stage in plays – and has also gathered a following due to her fitness achievements.
In 2021, Charlie returned to Albert Square as Janine which has seen her character shake things up as she has fallen in love with Mick Carter (played by Danny Dyer). She left the soap once again in an explosive exit on Boxing Day 2022. She told The Sun on Sunday: “I was only ever due back to EastEnders for a year, but when [exec producer] Chris Clenshaw presented me with his idea for the story, I couldn’t say no to staying a little longer.”
Away from reality shows and the world of acting, Charlie is a mum-of-one as she welcomed her now teenage daughter, Kiki Brooks-Truman, back in December 2004 when she was dating businessman Tony Truman. Charlie is now single – but is happily in the dating game, with reports in the summer of 2023 revealing she has been swiping on raunchy dating app Feeld.
Dougie Poynter (Series 11, 2011)
Dougie won in 2011 ( ITV)
McFly bassist Dougie Poynter was winner of the show in 2011 during a break from his chart topping band. Since winning the show, McFly have continued to release music and tour – and teamed up with Busted to form superband McBusted. He has also enjoyed success as a model – walking for iconic fashion label Dolce & Gabbana in their fashion shows. Dougie is also a children’s book writer and even teamed up with bandmate Tom Fletcher to write stories for kids.
Reports this year revealed the bassist was secretly dating Netflix star Yasmeen Scott – who was a cast member of the hit show The Sandman. A source told The Sun: “Dougie actually got together with Yasmeen not long after he split from his ex [model Maddy Elmer]. It has been smooth sailing since then. They have been on holidays together and are really into each other.”
Stacey Solomon (Series 10, 2010)
Stacey Solomon won the 10th series of I’m a Celebrity
Stacey Solomon ’s lovable personality helped her win the 2010 series a year after coming runner up to Joe McElderry and Olly Murs on the X Factor. She went on to release her debut album, Shy, in 2015 and became a regular panelist on Loose Women in 2016. She took over from Laura Whitmore as a presenter on I’m A Celeb Extra Camp but was dropped from the show in 2017. Her romance with co-host Joe Swash is still going strong and the pair tied the knot in 2021.
The busy Loose Women star is also a mum-of-five – sharing 15-year-old son Zach with ex-boyfriend Dean Cox, 11-year-old son Leighton with ex-fiancé Aaron Barnham, and children Rex, Rose and baby Belle with Joe, aged four, two and one respectively. Stacey is also stepmother of Swash’s son from a previous relationship.
Stacey took an extended break from Loose Women this year to soak up the quality time with her young children but has since returned to the ITV daytime panel show, much to the delight of fans.
Gino D’Acampo (Series 9, 2009)
Gino D’Acampo won the series in 2009
Smooth-talking Celebrity chef Gino charmed his way to the final in 2009. But after leaving the jungle, he and co-star, Hollyoaks actor Stuart Manning, were charged with animal cruelty for killing and cooking a rat while in exile. However, the charges were dropped after ITV producers took responsibility and coughed up a £3,000 fine.
He has since been a regular chef on ITV’s This Morning and was team captain on Celebrity Juice but later quit the series. Gino has also fronted his own TV shows including Gino’s Italian Escape and There’s No Taste Like Home – and opened a new flagship restaurant in London.
Joe Swash (Series 8, 2008)
Emotional Joe after being crowned King of The Jungle ( Rex)
EastEnders star Joe Swash jungled his way to glory in 2008 having been written out of the BBC One soap earlier that year. From 2009 he hosted the spin-off, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here NOW! before it was renamed Extra Camp in 2016. In June 2007, his then-fiancee Emma Sophocleous, gave birth to their first child, son Harry Swash, but they split just seven months later.
In November 2009 he was declared bankrupt – although his agent Becca Barr insisted it was simply a mix-up and that he wasn’t in financial difficulty. The year after he met X Factor star Stacey Solomon when she won the show, and in 2016 they confirmed they were an item.
Their son Rex was born in May 2019 and Stacey is a regular on Loose Women. In October 2021, on Stacey’s birthday, the couple welcomed their second child, a daughter named Rose, together. And in July 2022 the couple tied the knot in a ceremony which took place in the grounds of their home, Pickle Cottage. They later welcomed their third child together in February this year.
Christopher Biggins (Series 7, 2007)
Christopher Biggins won the show in 2007 ( ITV)
Veteran actor Christopher Biggins took the I’m A Celeb crown in 2007 and enjoyed something of a career renaissance. However, that stalled after a disastrous appearance on Celebrity Big Brother in 2016 where he upset viewers by making derogatory remarks about bisexual people and was booted from the house amid accusations of anti-Semitic comments.
He insisted he wasn’t a bigot and apologised, telling The Sun: “I am mortified by what’s happened, really mortified. Most of my friends, in fact, are Jewish. I apologised to Big Brother and [housemate] Katie [Waissel].”
Matt Willis (Series 6, 2006)
Matt Willis triumphed in 2006 ( Rex Features)
With Busted two years in the past, Matt hoped a jungle stint could help his solo career and ended up leaving with the crown. He went on to enjoy huge success in Busted and McFly mash-up band, McBusted, before Busted themselves reformed to critical acclaim.
He and his then-girlfriend Emma Griffiths – now known as Emma Willis – co-hosted the ITV spin off from 2006 until 2008 before tying the knot and welcoming children Isabelle, 13, Ace, 10, and Trixie, six. Matt has since worked on on a candid documentary with the BBC where he discussed his battle with addiction.
Carol Thatcher (Series 5, 2005)
Carol Thatcher was the second female winner of I’m A Celeb ( Daily Mirror)
Journalist Carol managed to emerge from the shadow of her mother, the late Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, to win I’m A Celeb 2005. Her victory propelled her into a correspondent role for the BBC’s One Show, which lasted until 2009 when the broadcaster dropped her after she was apparently heard calling a black cricket player a “golliwog” in the green room.
She refused to apologise, telling the Guardian: “I stand by what I said. I wasn’t going to apologise. I never meant it in a racist way. It was shorthand. I described someone’s appearance colloquially – someone I happen to greatly admire.”
Joe Pasquale (Series 4, 2004)
Joe Pasquale won I’m A Celebrity in 2004 ( Daily Mirror)
Comedian Joe left the jungle with the crown on his head in series four, which was the second series of the year. His win briefly revived his career and earned him an ITV special titled An Audience with Joe Pasquale in 2005. He still makes the occasional TV appearance and was guest host on The Paul O’Grady Show in 2009 and The Nightly Show in 2017.
Joe has been married twice; first to Alison who he wed in 1978 and divorced in 1986 and shares children Kerry, Vicky and Dani. He then married current wife Debbie and they welcomed a son named Joe Tracini who is an actor known for playing Dennis Savage in Hollyoaks.
Kerry Katona (Series 3, 2004)
Kerry won in 2004 ( ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Atomic Kitten’s Kerry became the first female winner in 2004 just months after Brian McFadden left her for Delta Goodrem. Since then she’s continued to hit the headlines thanks to her turbulent relationships and heartbreaks. She was crowned Celebrity Mum of the Year in 2005 and landed an advertising deal with Iceland but ended up going to rehab where she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
On Valentine’s Day 2007 she married taxi driver Mark Croft in Gretna Green and their daughter Heidi was born six days later. They split in 2011 and Kerry moved on with rugby league player George Kay. Kerry almost died giving birth to their daughter Dylan-Jorge in April 2014 and later said the trauma set George on a toxic downwards spiral.
They married in September 2014 before splitting the following October when she filed assault charges against the sports star. They reunited in 2015 and tried to make a go of things, but the final straw came when George suffered another public meltdown in July 2017.
George died on July 6, 2019 after suffering a suspected overdose. Kerry is now dating nutrition expert Ryan Mahoney. Last year, Kerry released a book titled Kerry Katona: Whole Again, where she documented the abuse she suffered at the hands of her late ex George. Kerry also landed her first presenting role in 20 years with BBC Radio Five Live.
Phil Tufnell (Series 2, 2003)
Phil Tufnell won I’m A Celeb in 2003 – and returned for the All Star version, alongside Carol Vorderman, in 2023 ( ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Fresh from retirement, Tufnell was crowned King of the Jungle in 2003. He went on to do the reality rounds, starring in in 2009 and The Jump in 2015. He’s also popped up on game shows including The Chase, and was a team captain on A Question of Sport between 2005 and 2015. In 2018 he joined Australia’s Seven Network as a commentator for the BBL and Sri Lankan Test matches.
Phil has been married three times – first to Alison Squires from 1986 until 1989, then to Lisa Bar who he married in 1994 and divorced 1998, and is now married to Dawn Brown, who he tied-the-knot with in 2005. He has two daughters; one with an ex-girlfriend named Jane McEvoy, and one with his second wife, Lisa. He returned to I’m A Celeb in 2023 for the All Stars version that filmed in South Africa and he ended in third place.
Tony Blackburn (Series 1, 2002)
Tony Blackburn was the first ever I’m A Celeb winner ( Rex)
Radio DJ Tony Blackburn was the winner of the first ever I’m A Celeb back in 2002. After leaving the jungle he continued to work for the BBC but was abruptly sacked after the Dame Janet Smith Review report linked him to the investigation into the Jimmy Savile scandal.
Blackburn insisted he was innocent of any wrongdoing and said he was “devastated” by the sacking. He was reinstated on October 19, 2016 after he threatened to sue. That same year he underwent prostate surgery after waking up in extreme pain but was found not to have cancer. He continues to work for BBC Radio and hosts a show each Sunday on BBC Radio 2.
Rebekah Vardy has been branded “desperate” and “jealous” in a bitter assault of words by one of her ex-husbands.
The 42-year-old former Dancing On Ice contestant is happily married to 37-year-old footballer Jamie Vardy – however, he is her third husband. Rebeccah and Mark Godden, an electrician, were first married in 2001, but they split up in 2003.
She then fell for 59-year-old Steve Clarke, who owned his timeshare company while serving as his secretary. They started dating in 2005, but their relationship ended when they divorced the following year.
Rebekah’s ex-partner may have been divorced nearly 20 years ago, but it appears he is still bitter about their time together and has yelled abuse at the actress in a recent interview. He claims he can see evidence that Rebekah is angered over the warm response her arch rival, Coleen Rooney, has received during her time on ITV’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!
Arch rival Coleen Rooney has made it to the I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! 2024 final (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Rebekah has been following Coleen’s progress to the show’s finale in order to write a column for The Sun about her trials. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Steve hit out at his ex, declaring: “She is just desperate to stay relevant and keep her name in the news”.
He continued, “She commenting on I’m a Celebrity just shows she is so jealous of Coleen is quite pathetic.” She merely wants people to see her picture and her name, I can assure you of that. When you watch Coleen, she is all smiles and happy. Although Rebekah is popular, people were complaining about her resting b**ch face when she was in the jungle. She just can’t stand that people like Colleen]sic] and the public have no sympathy for her”.
Getting even more personal, Steve’s attack continued as he blasted: “]Coleen] is her own person, while Rebekah is only relevant because she is married to a Premier League footballer. Because she can still profit from it, she has registered the name Wagatha Christie. The Mirror has contacted Rebekah’s spokesperson for comment.
Rebekah and Steve’s union may not have been happy, but the charity patron has since begun to live happily for herself. She had a romantic relationship with football player Luke Foster, who they welcomed sons in 2005 and 2010 together. She married Jamie in 2016, they welcomed a son in 2017, and a daughter in 2019, and they married in 2016.
Rebekah is also step-mother to a further daughter Jamie has from a past relationship. In an interview with Hello! She stated in a 2020 article that she was “so happy to have Jamie by my side while we gave birth to our lovely daughter (Olivia). We now have a second child, and I’m thrilled.
Follow Mirror Celebs on Threads, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram,andTikTok.
In addition to partner Tasha Ghouri, Janette Manrara has been spending the last few months watching her husband Aljakorjanec compete in this series of Strictly Come Dancing. And Janette has not only been blown away by their performances, but she’s also a big fan of Tasha’s personality.
Revealing that she would love her daughter, Lyra, who she and Aljaz welcomed in July last year, to turn out like former Love Island star Tasha, Janette told OK! : “Yes, I said to her – because I really meant it – that if Lyra grows up to be like Tasha, who’s so humble and kind and gracious, I’ll be the happiest mum in the world.
Janette and Aljaz welcomed baby Lyra last year (Janette Manrara/Instagram)
Tasha and Aljaz, who are aiming to win this year’s coveted Glitterball trophy, dedicated their American Smooth dance to baby Lyra earlier in the competition, which Janette admits left her emotionally sensitive. I was in tears! I’ve honestly loved watching Aljaž back on the show. I fell in love with him watching him dance when we first met and had other partners with us. And for our family to now be his wife, having a young girl watch her father dance on television is such a lovely thing.
Before Janette and Aljaz started the program, Janette and Aljaz met and fell in love, but they both gave up on the relationship. We always say that with Strictly Come Dancing, there’s no curse for us, it’s a Strictly blessing because it really saved our relationship, “Janette explained to Best magazine earlier this year. She continued, “Strictly came along and offered us a spot as professional dancers,” which was the biggest blessing of our relationship. We stayed together and got married a lot from the show.
Janette describes Tasha Ghouri as ‘ gracious ‘ and ‘ kind ‘ (Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
Janette and Aljaz are also getting ready for Christmas with their little one in addition to Strictly. And this year, Janette is working with Action For Children’s Secret Santa campaign.
Talking to OK!, she said of the partnership:” I feel like I’ve changed so much after becoming a mother to Lyra]born in July 2023], but I’ve always wanted to help different charities and support children. Action For Children accomplishes a lot, and it doesn’t just address one issue. They provide food and clothing, of course, but they also provide things like mental health services and financial support. Every child requires a different kind of support, and they provide it in many different ways.
Janette visited the Giving Grotto at Action For Children Secret Santa. To become a Secret Santa and help support vulnerable children, donate at iamsanta. org. uk
Aljakorjanec, her husband’s professional dancer, is still practicing daily in preparation for impressing the Strictly Come Dancing judges on Saturday. Janette Manrara has been holding the fort at home. The couple, who married seven years ago, are parents to 16-month-old daughter Lyra and while Aljaž, 34, gets as far as he can in the competition with former Love Island star Tasha Ghouri, Janette has been in full Christmas mode, as she tells OK!.
Strictly: It Takes Two co-host Janette, 41, is also using this time to raise awareness of Action For Children’s Secret Santa campaign, which is especially close to her heart because, as she tells new, she wasn’t always as fortunate as she is today…
Janette is backing Action For Children’s Secret Santa campaign (WireImage)
The dancer-turned-presenter says she and Aljaz both adore this time of year (Internet Unknown)
Hi, Janette! Who gets more excited about Christmas, you or Aljaž?
Both of us. But he’s got a slightly different priority right now until 14 December. We all just want to pass the time until Christmas.
You spent last Christmas with Aljaž’s family in Slovenia – it’s your family in Miami this year, isn’t it?
Yes, and our families do Christmas very differently. My family is loud and big, everything is red, green and gold, and the outside of the house is lit up like Santa’s home. Every year, they are crazy at Christmas. Aljaž’s family are more cosy and warm at Christmas. Because Lyra was a young baby last year, and she will now be able to see all the lights and all the craziness, it was perfect last year.
Tell us why you got involved in Action For Children’s Secret Santa campaign…
Although I’ve been a mother to Lyra [born in July 2023], I’ve always wanted to support and help various charities. Action For Children accomplishes a lot, and it doesn’t just address one issue. They provide food and clothing, of course, but they also provide things like mental health services and financial support. Every child requires a different kind of support, and they all do it in many different ways.
Janette co-hosts It Takes Two with Fleur East (BBC/Ray Burmiston)
She and Aljaz are taking little Lyra to Miami for Christmas (Janette Manrara/Instagram)
After having personally experienced it, isn’t it a cause that is dear to your heart?
I’ll be honest with you, I grew up in a household that had very, very little. If anything, my adolescent behavior would have been more of a family, which Action For Children could have used as a resource. My mother, dad, brother, and I once shared a bedroom with two other residents who lived nearby, along with my parents. Given that I had very little to offer up until now, I am aware of the value of family love. My parents were always much more focused on the things we had and our families, not the things we did.
Do you attempt to teach Lyra that lesson?
Yes, I have a lot of blessings and blessings for her, but I’m aware that she recognizes how fortunate we are to be in this position. I don’t buy her a million presents, I don’t buy her loads of clothes. If anything, I buy her lots of books because I really want her to love books. She should be able to share her experiences and show kindness.
Do you find it challenging to be asked if you want to have a second child?
No, I never get annoyed. That those kinds of questions are never actually asked of men is what I find a little frustrating. It’s a one-way system towards women and I think that needs to change. Aljaž could do a million interviews and they’ll never ask, ‘ Are you going to have another baby? ‘ But in our home, parenting is 50-50. Alja was the main factor in my decision to become a mother because I knew I could do it if we worked together.
Janette is a fan of this series of Strictly (PA), and Chris McCausland is one of them.
It’s a lot to work at juggling your jobs on Strictly and Alja on It Takes Two…
I’m part-time with It Takes Two and Aljaž is so busy with Strictly, so I’m taking the reins with Lyra at the moment, but that changes and we absolutely co-parent straight down the middle.
Are you allowed to pick a favourite on Strictly? Who is it?
No, I’m not allowed because of It Takes Two. But I can say that I’ve loved this series for many reasons – and the surprise element that Chris]McCausland] has given us is one of those. I don’t think people expected him to deliver in the way he’s delivered. He has completely removed any social norms that limit you from doing things like being blind or having some other type of disability.
What did you think of Aljaž and Tasha’s dance that they dedicated to Lyra?
I was in tears! I’ve honestly loved watching Aljaž back on the show. When we first met we danced with other partners, so I fell watching him dance, I fell in love with him. And for our family to now be his wife, having a young girl watch her father dance on television is such a lovely thing.
You all get on well with Tasha too, don’t you?
Yes, I said to her – because I really meant it – that if Lyra grows up to be like Tasha, who’s so humble and kind and gracious, I’ll be the happiest mum in the world.
Janette visited the Giving Grotto at Action For Children Secret Santa. To become a Secret Santa and help support vulnerable children, donate at iamsanta. org. uk
