I’m A Celebrity… South Africa is looking for its ultimate legend, but I’m already pretty clear in my mind who it definitely shouldn’t be – here’s the contestants ranked!
Of course, everyone will have a favourite contestant, or a particular celeb who drives them bonkers. Meanwhile, other so-called stars just blend into the background, swallowed up by the cast of characters.
As an I’m A Celebrity superfan who hasn’t missed one single series, I think I know what makes a good contestant. So here’s my list of I’m A Celebrity… South Africa celebs, ranked from worst to best.
I’m A Celebrity South Africa ranked 15. Janice Dickinson
Oh Janice, what the HELL happened? The former supermodel and self-proclaimed “bitch” promised to be one of the most entertaining campmates, but she’s one of the most boring.
Janice Dickinson is known for being brash, loud, and feisty, but she’s been mostly moaning and sleeping this time around. She’s a dead weight, refusing to fully commit to trials, and blaming her age for not participating. Errr, hang on love, you know you’re only a few years older than Carol and Fatima, don’t you?
She’s barely taking part, but she’s not providing any amusement either. Kick her off next please!
14. Dean Gaffney
At the time of writing, it’s early days for Dean Gaffney. He arrived in week two alongside Joe Swash, which is never a good comparison. Joe is ridiculously likeable, and makes everyone else look bad.
But Dean didn’t start off on a good foot with me. During his intro, Dean talked about himself in the third person, and came across as more David Brent than I’m A Celeb legend.
He asked: “Who is Dean Gaffney in 2023?” And my gut answered the question for him. Who cares?
I’m willing to be proven wrong, but Dean is going to need to be a whole lot less cringe to win a popularity contest with the other campmates.
I’m A Celebrity South Africa ranked 13. Georgia ‘Toff’ Toffolo
I’m going to admit, I’m massively biased here. I don’t like Toff, never have, and doubt I ever will unless she crashes down to earth with a bang one day.
Anybody else agree that she’s acting like she’s won it already? She’s given patronising pep talks to Helen, and dissed Janice’s appearance. No sister solidarity here AT all. This girl got famous on Made in Chelsea; it doesn’t exactly give her the upper hand with her peers, does it?
The worst, though? When she bragged about her 10-hour boozy lunches, when restaurant staff have to beg her to leave so they can go home. Pesky waiters spoiling her fun, boo hoo.
Also, describing the voting process as “the hardest thing she’s ever done”… Seriously, Toff? You’ve never done anything more difficult than writing down someone’s name on a reality show?
Vocal Tory Toff needs to pick up a newspaper occasionally, and realise there’s a cost of living crisis on. Toff turns me right off.
12. Jordan Banjo
Jordan Banjo on the ultimate I’m A Celeb legend edition… Did I miss something here? Yes, he’s a nice bloke. But there’s a handful of those in camp already.
He took part in the 16th season of I’m A Celebrity UK, and finished in 9th place. Not exactly a great recommendation, is it? I can think of several other former contestants who deserved his place in South Africa. Not least Peter Andre, Katie Price, Scarlet Moffat, Gina D’Acampo, and Christopher Biggins…
Sorry Jordan, you’re a bloody great dancer, and a decent chap. But you’re too vanilla to be on I’m A Celebrity… South Africa. You’re out of your depth with the other celebs, and bringing very little to the table.
I’m A Celebrity South Africa ranked 11. Andy Whyment
Andy Whyment is another very nice bloke, but with a sense of humour, too. Again, strong bias from me here, as he is one of the friendliest actors I have ever interviewed.
What’s not to like about Coronation Street star Andy? He wears his heart on his sleeve, is an all-round good guy, and helps around camp.
Just this week, Andy opened up about a historic storyline in the ITV soap, when the character of Tyrone was abused by girlfriend Kirsty.
He said: “A lot of men get domestically abused and [are] too ashamed to admit it.” I love a man who is not afraid to talk about the difficult issues. Even if that same man broke a camp record by taking more than four hours to start a fire…
I’m A Celebrity South Africa ranked 10. Phil Tufnell
Phil Tufnell joins the ranks of ‘another nice bloke’ on I’m A Celebrity… South Africa. One of the older men, he’s funny, easy-going, and keeps things light.
He was totally chill about being chosen to join Shaun Ryder in the ‘other’ camp, proving that there’s no ego about him. To be honest, I’m still gutted that Phil’s bromance with Shaun was cut short. They were a great pair, and I feel Phil needs someone closer to his own age to bounce off.
Sadly, though, Phil hasn’t really had a chance to prove himself yet this year during any significant trials. Although he’s made it clear he’d be up for a chess challenge, but I think I might miss that episode if there is one (yawn)!
9. Joe Swash
Former EastEnders star Joe Swash made me feel physically sick when I saw him – only because of his disgusting trial, though!
Joe’s giggles are contagious, and he’s an uplifting campmate to have around. Deep down, I would have loved to see Joe enter the camp with his wife Stacey Solomon – now that would have been a killer combo!
As well as his huge smile and outgoing nature, Joe is a brilliant team player. During his first trial, he gave it his best – despite once again showing the nation what a strong gag reflex he has.
Although at the time of writing, he hadn’t entered the camp yet, I just know he’ll be a popular addition to the campmates and will bring everyone’s mood up.
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