Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley has become the second celebrity to touch down in Australia for I’m A Celebrity, declaring: “I’m from the north, we are made of tough skin.” The actress, who portrays Mandy Dingle in the soap, arrived at Brisbane Airport ahead of the ITV show’s launch next Sunday.
She continued: “I am a Dingle I can cope with anything. We did Dingles Down Under many years and I feel it’s only right we do it again.” At 49, Lisa expressed her confidence in dealing with any creepy-crawlies. She said: “I’ve worked on a farm and it’s part of the job.”
Earlier in the day, Kelly Brook was seen beaming as she landed.
She said: “I haven’t seen my auntie Sheila for a long time so I can’t wait to see her, and I’m so excited that you’re all so excited for me.”
Questioned about her tolerance for creepy-crawlies, Kelly humorously suggested there might be some in her “relative’s” garden, adding: “I don’t know what you’re talking about, I’m visiting a distant cousin.
“I’m looking forward to surfing. Like I said, I’m looking forward to seeing my distant cousin that I’ve not seen for a long, long time… the koalas and the kangaroos. So much to look forward to.”
Other celebrities heading Down Under include musician Martin Kemp, YouTuber Morgan Burtwistle, known as Angryginge, EastEnders actress Shona McGarty, comedian Ruby Wax, TV presenter Alex Scott and Jack Osbourne.
They are expected to be joined by comedian Eddie Kadi, rapper Aitch, and presenter Vogue Williams.
ITV bosses are poised to officially reveal the celebrity line-up next week.
Two familiar faces will be absent from the initial announcement as they’re anticipated to make their jungle debut as late arrivals.
Ant and Dec are making their comeback to present the popular programme, which is celebrating its landmark 25th series.
An insider connected to the production revealed: “Producers are expected to pull out the stops to ensure the 25th series is the most memorable yet.”
Intense speculation surrounding the celebrity roster has dominated recent weeks.
The Mirror disclosed over the weekend how Nick Ferrari withdrew from discussions with ITV regarding I’m a Celebrity participation after his radio employers promised to equal his substantial jungle payment.
The LBC presenter was courted by programme executives during what sources describe as “really productive conversations.”
However, insiders suggest that once Ferrari informed his superiors at Global about the opportunity, they implored him to reconsider.
A source revealed: “They pledged to match any fee he was set to receive as they consider him such a vital and well-loved part of the LBC schedule.”