Former I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! star Tony Bellew has praised the show’s newly announced Bushtucker Trial rule change, calling it a much-needed improvement that will help protect contestants from emotional strain.
The 2023 finalist — who became a fan favourite thanks to his heart-warming friendship with eventual winner Sam Thompson — spoke out after ITV confirmed a major shake-up ahead of the new series. For the first time, celebrities will be limited to taking part in no more than two consecutive Bushtucker Trials, a significant change designed to prevent the public from repeatedly voting for the same person.
Tony Bellew supports the trial limit
But Tony thinks it’s a positive move from show bosses (Credit: ITV)
Speaking on behalf of EsportsBets, Bellew explained why he fully supports the new rule. Drawing from his own experience on the show, he said the relentless focus on a single contestant can be damaging — and he witnessed that first-hand with campmate Nella Rose.
Tony recalled:
“I really felt for Nella when we were in there. She is such a lovely girl. She got dealt a harsh hand because she kept getting put on the trials and challenges. It broke her, to be fair.”
He said the system felt unfair, insisting that every celebrity should shoulder some of the pressure:
“The trials should be shared out between all the celebs. Everyone should have to endure a horrific trial. I don’t care what your fear is or what you’re in there for.”
The former boxing champion added with characteristic humour:
“Everybody should have at least one horrific trial. Nobody should come out unscathed. Believe me, I did not.”
What is the new Bushtucker Trial rule?
ITV bosses announced earlier this week that viewers will no longer be able to vote the same celebrity into trials indefinitely. After a contestant has completed two trials in a row, they must automatically sit out the next vote and allow someone else to take part.
I’m A Celebrity begins this weekend (Credit: ITV)
This change is expected to drastically alter the usual dynamics, as some celebrities — often those seen as controversial or divisive — traditionally end up doing the majority of challenges.
An ITV spokesperson confirmed the intention behind the update:
“Show bosses are keen to give all campmates the opportunity to shine in Bushtucker Trials this year and are bringing in a new rule. After a celebrity has been voted for two trials in a row, they cannot be voted for on the next day.”
They added that the aim is to ensure a more balanced experience for both players and viewers:
“More campmates will have an opportunity to step up and play their part. Viewers will get a chance to get to know them more.”
The upcoming season will reveal whether the twist improves camp morale — or creates fresh drama.
Watch I’m A Celebrity on Sunday night (November 16) at 9pm on ITV1.
(Source: BBC News)
