Fears for future of I’m A Celebrity as Aussie camp owner tells shows bosses where to stick their witchetty grubs
I’M A CELEB may have to get out of the jungle after a huge bust up with the camp’s owner.
Craig Parker is sick of the show’s antics and has told ITV chiefs where to stick their witchetty grubs.
They have filmed on his land in Australia’s Dungay Creek, Queensland, since 2003, but he is refusing to sign a new contract when it runs out in February.
A source said: “The relationship between Craig and the bosses has badly broken down. He’s always found hosting the show on his land frustrating, but in the past has considered it worth the money they throw at him.
“But this year’s different. There have been lots of small squabbles in which he feels his opinions have been totally ignored.
“He is sick and tired of having the cast and crew there. He can pretty much name his price. But so far he is adamant he will not be changing his mind.”
The source added: “A senior member of staff recently checked out a possible camp in Sydney, but it was far too expensive.
“A cheaper country like South Africa wouldn’t work because of the time difference. Craig has them over a barrel.”
Things have got so bad, a shed on the camp was smashed up last Saturday night and a member of staff injured.
New South Wales Police are investigating after a complaint and are due to interview Craig today.
ITV said last night: “We have a good relationship with the owner of the site and we’re currently on our 15th series in that location.”
The show returns next week, with campmates rumoured to include Carol Vorderman, Corrie’s Craig Charles and Gogglebox’s Scarlett Moffatt.
Show's toff limits
PIPPA Middleton’s future brother-in-law Spencer Matthews has been warned off going back on I’m A Celebrity.
The bride-to-be, 33, and fiance James, 41, fear he will spill the beans about their wedding on TV. Ex-Made In Chelsea star Spencer, 28 left the jungle last year after admitting taking steroids.
A source said: “He is under orders not to give away secrets. He doesn’t want to fall out with people, so let the jungle go.”
What’s new on I’m A Celeb…?
Producers are staying tight lipped about the main show but the spin-off show has been revamped.
I’m A Celeb… tweeted: “This year @ITV2 returns with the newly named I'm A Celebrity: Extra Camp, as well as a new gang of super fan presenters! #ImACeleb.”
ITV2 spin-off presenter Laura Whitmore has gone and the new ‘super-fan’ presenters are ready in the wings.
There’s former winner Vicky Pattison who's 'buzzing' about her new job, Chris Ramsey and loved-up former king and Essex queen couple Joe Swash and Stacey Solomon.
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