I’m A Celebrity 2020 ‘costs ITV over £15m’ as expense of signing celebs and building new set spirals after move to UK
I'M A Celebrity 2020 is reportedly set to cost ITV more than £15million following its move to the UK.
As well as an incredible starting lineup, show bosses have also been forced to dig deep because a whole new camp had to be built - along with new challenges.
"The whole infrastructure had to be put in place — creative ideas, format, location, production and that’s before we even got to Covid protocols."
Earlier this week, The Sun Online revealed Mo Farah had raced straight to the top of the show's rich list after securing an estimated £300,000 pay packet.
The athlete, who was one of the gold medal-winning stars of London 2012, is earning double that of nearest rival Vernon Kay.
He also knocked Corrie legend Bev Callard into bronze place with her £125,000 earner.
A TV insider told us: "The ITV executives were desperate to bag Mo and will have spent big to get their man.
"It's a massive coup for producers to get Mo for the series. Everyone's really excited about the signing and think he'll be a hit with viewers.
"It's the first time he's agreed to do anything like this, so it'll be a massive draw for sports fans."
After the top three big earners comes opera singer Russell Watson, who has reportedly bagged around £100,000.
EastEnders actor Jessica Plummer, West End name Ruthie Henshall and radio host Victoria Derbyshire have asked for around £75,000.
Meanwhile, a series of changes have been made to the show's new location, Gwrych Castle.
Taking inspiration from its former Aussie jungle location, producers have designed a communal area with a fire as the main focal point for the camp.