ITV’s revelation that I’m A Celebrity… South Africa will return for a second series in 2026 has sparked a wave of criticism from viewers on social media.

The network confirmed the all-star spin-off would feature former campmates competing in the South African wilderness, with Ant and Dec returning as hosts.

However, the announcement was met with considerable backlash on X. “No thanks,” one user responded bluntly to the news. Another simply stated: “Sorry don’t like it.”

Several viewers expressed frustration with the format, particularly concerns about pre-recording. “The fun goes when its prerecorded unfortunately,” one fan commented, whilst another criticised the previous series, calling it “S***e last time it was on.”

One particularly vocal critic highlighted multiple issues with the previous series: “I wasn’t a fan of the I’m a celeb last time. it was pre recorded, no voting & that 3 people had been evicted before 2 celeb entered.”

The absence of live elements and viewer participation emerged as key complaints.

The pre-recorded nature of the 2023 series, which saw celebrities like Myleene Klass, Amir Khan, Gillian McKeith, Joe Swash and Carol Vorderman compete, clearly disappointed audiences accustomed to the interactive format of the main show.

Not all feedback was negative, however. Some fans expressed enthusiasm, with one writing: “Can’t wait this is way better than Australia one.”

Ant and Dec’s announcement was met with some negative responses

 | ITV/INSTAGRAM

Another welcomed the new live element: “Finale live?? Oh let’s goooo can’t wait.” (sic)

ITV has introduced significant changes for the 2026 series, most notably a live grand final broadcast from London where viewers will determine the winner.

This marks a departure from the fully pre-recorded format of the 2023 series.

The network promises that returning campmates will face more extreme challenges than ever before.

According to the official announcement, contestants will encounter “relentless twists and turns” and learn that “with big decisions come even bigger consequences.”

The South African setting will reportedly provide tougher conditions than the Australian jungle. Producers have emphasised that trials will be “truly epic” and more demanding than previous iterations of the show.

The series will air on ITV1, STV and ITVX, though specific celebrity participants are yet to be revealed.

Despite the negative fan reaction, ITV executives and the show’s hosts have expressed strong enthusiasm for the upcoming series.

I’m A Celebrity fans have been awaiting the announcement of this year’s contestants

| ITVAnt McPartlin stated: “The campmates really brought their A-game to the first series so we can’t wait to be back for more trials, challenges and surprises amongst the beautiful South African landscape.”

Dec Donnelly added: “Having a live final is an exciting addition to the new series with the viewers choosing their IAC Legend and we’ve heard some of the new trials are truly epic, even by I’m A Celeb standards!”

Ant and Dec confirmed the I’m A Celebrity spin-off would air every three years

| ITVKatie Rawcliffe, ITV’s Director of Entertainment, Reality and Daytime Commissioning, also said: “We were blown away by the love for the first series of I’m A Celebrity South Africa.

“It was a true celebration of the show’s history and viewers loved seeing their favourite campmates return to their screens.”