Kate Garraway drops out of I’m A Celebrity after having second thoughts about time away from the UK
The star was a hot favourite to enter the jungle in just over a weeks' time
KATE Garraway has backtracked on plans to star in this year's I'm a Celeb after having doubts about leaving the UK.
ITV bosses were hoping to secure the Good Morning Britain host for a slot Down Under but will now have to find a replacement because "the timing isn't right" for the star.
An insider told The Sun Online: "Kate is no longer taking part - she didn't want to be out of the UK for a long time and it's just not the right time for her to take part.
"She's a big fan of the show so she's not ruling it out forever - just this year!"
The Sun Online has contacted Kate's representative for comment.
The Sun revealed in August that Kate - who has been a massive ratings hit on Good Morning Britain - was approached for a stint in the Australian jungle.
A source said at the time: “Kate has been approached by show producers because they know she would be TV gold."Kate has always been relatable and game for a challenge but since entering her fifties she’s embracing all aspects of life and sees the Aussie jungle as the ultimate life test.
"She’s in great shape at the minute too so wouldn’t have any qualms about stripping off in a bikini and would be flying the flag for the more mature lady."
Last year Kate admitted in an on-screen interview with past I’m A Celeb star Martin Roberts that she would “love to” be asked to appear on the show.
MOST READ IN TV & SHOWBIZ
It's understood bosses were willing to offer a generous fee in the region of £150,000.
But Kate is just one name in a long list of stars rumoured to be heading into the jungle on November 18.
Controversial Strictly star Seann Walsh, Charlotte Dawson and Made in Chelsea's Jamie Laing are also slated to appear.
Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220.
We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.