ITV boss confirms they’re looking for an ‘alternative’ to I’m A Celeb but says he still plans for 2020 show to go ahead

ITV boss Kevin Lygo says they are looking for an "alternative" to I'm A Celebrity - but says he still plans for the 2020 series to go ahead.

The popular reality series looked to be under threat as the coronavirus shut down production on most of the TV schedule.

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Speaking at the Edinburgh Television Festival via video link, the telly chief confirmed it is likely to go ahead in Austrlia in December, but they are looking for alternatives if it's not possible.

He did not clarify what those shows will be.

In April, The Sun confirmed bosses are determined to press on as usual with crew being told they'll be filming in Australia as scheduled.

Celebrities are also being lined up with former Manchester United footballer Eric Cantona, 53, top of bookers’ list.

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A TV source said: “ITV are certain lockdown will be well over by the time I’m A Celeb normally starts which is in November.

“Every year it’s a ratings smash and this year will more than likely be even bigger as the public will be desperate for some fresh and uplifting TV.

“ITV have started hiring crew as well as advertising for them Down Under.

“And bookers are still on the case with celebrities, holding meetings on the likes of Zoom.”

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Meanwhile, their other huge TV show Love Island is under threat as Kevin Lygo said the show might send the wrong message. 

The telly chief revealed the channel is concerned that seeing the Islanders "slavering over each other" in the sun would send a bad message for everyone social-distancing at home.

Speaking at the Edinburgh Television Festival, he said: "We're approaching the moment of is it feasible? Will Majorca open its doors?

"What signal might it be sending out if we're doing a show where everyone is crammed together slavering over each other, and the rest of the world is told not to go near anyone in the park?"

Lygo also dismissed reports the show will be filmed in Cornwall as an alternative to its regular Majorcan villa.

ITV had looked into the possibility of having in the south west of England but decided it "wouldn't be the same".