I'm a Celebrity 2024 rumoured star 'quits' for second time with weeks to go

17 days ago

The Independent

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Another rumoured I’m a Celebrity 2024 contestant has “quit” the show with just weeks to go.

One week after another alleged star reportedly withdrew from the series, it’s been claimed that Ally McCoist, who was a firm favourite to be taking part, will no longer enter the jungle.

Former Rangers pro McCoist, who played for Scotland and is now known by many for his commentary, was one of 11 rumoured stars believed to have been secured for this year’s series.

His participation was particularly exciting for fans as he backed out from an appearance on the show in 2022.

I'm A Celeb 2024 - Figure 2 — Photo The Independent

Other celebrities that have been speculated to appear include Reverend Richard Coles, Maura Higgins and Coleen Rooney, who will reportedly be the highest-paid campmate ever.

However, it’s now being reported that McCoist will no longer be on the show – and that bosses have lined up another sporting figure to take his place.

Ally McCoist is no longer entering ‘I’m a Celebrity’ jungle (Getty Images)

According to The Mirror, Irish boxer Barry McGuigan will be entering the jungle,

A source told the outlet: “Barry is a bona-fide sporting legend and he’s a great person to have heading for the jungle. When he rose to fame in the 1980s as the WBA featherweight boxing champ he became a non-sectarian ambassador.

I'm A Celeb 2024 - Figure 3 — Photo The Independent

“He fought for both Ireland and Great Britain and was loved and respected on both sides of the divide. There’s not many who can say that.”

Irish boxer Barry McGuigan will ‘replace’ Ally McCoist on ‘I’m a Celebrity’ (Getty Images)

The ITV reality show has been on the air since 2000, with winners including Tony Blackburn, Stacey Solomon, Jill Scott and last year’s victor Sam Thompson.

In recent years, I’m a Celebrity has been plagued with controversy for signing up two controversial politicians: former health secretary Matt Hancock in 2022 and Nigel Farage in 2023, which appeared to lead to a downturn in ratings.

Currently, it seems like bosses don’t have anyone quite so contentious waiting in the wings.

An ITV spokesperson said of the rumoured line-up: “Any names suggested are just speculation.”