Politics
I’m A Celebrity’s most dramatic emergencies from Gillian McKeith fainting to Richard Madeley’s hospital dash
I’M A Celebrity is the toughest challenge many famous faces will ever tackle.
From measly rations of rice and beans, to creepy critters and stomach-churning challenges – the show takes its toll on the strongest of wills.
Over the years, it has left some stars broken and others needing medical assistance.
We take a look at the emergencies that have rocked the show.
Freddie Starr – 2011
ITVFreddie Starr was forced to leave the jungle on health grounds[/caption]
The late comedian flew to the Australian jungle just a year after recovering from quadruple bypass surgery following a heart attack.
He was forced to leave the show after suffering an allergic reaction to a fermented egg and a camel toe during an eating challenge against Mark Wright.
Sitting on a chair in dense foliage, Freddie was filmed receiving oxygen as medics treated him on site.
The comedian died from a heart attack eight years later in his Spanish home aged 76.
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LADY C – 2015
RexLady C pulledo ut just before the final[/caption]
The feisty royal biographer left the jungle just four days before the final on medical grounds.
Her son Dima quickly reassured concerned fans him mum was fine after she arrived back at the luxury hotel for ousted celebs.
A controversial character thanks to her forthright opinions, refusal to do trials and scathing put-downs, she was nonetheless loved by many.
I’m A Celeb said of her departure: “During her time in the jungle, Lady C locked horns with many of her fellow Campmates. It’s fair to say she’ll be missed by Kieron in particular though, who she struck up a strong bond with. Only yesterday the pair were laughing and chatting about sport, and how Lady C was a big fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. And, in particular, his body! She’s certainly delivered some jungle drama over the last few weeks. For now though, farewell Lady C.”
Gillian McKeith – 2010
Rex FeaturesGillian McKeith collapsed to the floor ahead of a trial[/caption]
The nutritionist’s fainting spells are part of I’m A Celeb folklore.
Gillian hit the deck on a number of occasions as the mere thought of trials overwhelmed her.
But not everyone believed she was suffering as much as the worrying collapses suggested.
Campmate Shaun Ryder said: “If that was real, so are my teeth. We get 12 meals and Gillian gets an Academy Award.”
Richard Madeley – 2021
ErotemeRichard Madeley was taken to hospital after falling ill in Gwrych Castle[/caption]
The Good Morning Britain host was among the favourites for the I’m A Celeb crown this year before falling ill overnight and being taken to hospital.
Show bosses are yet to reveal what the health issue is but did say the hospital visit was precautionary.
It remains to be seen if he will return to camp.
Gemma Collins – 2014
RexGemma Collins had an emotional breakdown in the jungle[/caption]
The former Towie star regretted signing up for the show the moment she set foot in the jungle.
Having convinced herself she’d contracted malaria and become fed up with the tiny food portions, Gemma broke down in tears before walking away from the show.
She said at the time: “People who murder get treated better than this. That’s the truth. Even a murderer gets fed three times a day.”
She still holds the record for the earliest voluntary show exit.