Shane Richie has signed up for this year’s I’m A Celebrity, it has been reported.
The actor, who has played EastEnders’ Alfie Moon on-off since 2002, is set to head into a two-week quarantine ahead of the show’s start date in November.
Soap star Shane often fills his Christmasses by taking part in pantos, but has decided to take the plunge this year by appearing on the hit ITV show.
This year, I’m A Celebrity is taking part at its new venue Gwrych Castle, North Wales, rather than its original location in Australia.
A source told The Sun : “ITV have always wanted Shane for the jungle but with panto not happening this year and other work opportunities less likely, he decided this was the time to take the plunge.
“Going to North Wales is less of a huge commitment than flying halfway across the world, too, so he jumped at the chance.”
They added that production already reckon he’s a favourite to win as he is known for being a “likable bloke”.
He joins a whole host of EastEnders stars who have taken part in I’m A Celeb, including winners Joe Swash, Jacqueline Jossa and Charlie Brooks.
His appearance in the show comes after it was revealed that Olympic legend Mo Farah was rumoured to be taking part.
Mo is reportedly a big fan of the show and has watched it ever since one of his favourite sporting stars, Linford Christie, appeared on it in 2010 alongside the likes of Stacey Solomon, Dom Joly and Gillian McKeith.
An insider source told the publication: “Mo’s been a big fan of the show for years and was just waiting for the right time in his career to do it.
“He obviously has an excellent level of fitness and mental focus so will be great at the Bushtucker Trials and will be a positive addition for keeping up team morale for campmates – especially as a lot of the celebs are worried how cold it will be.”
They added that, because it is his first time in a reality TV show, he’s a bit nervous and will miss his family.
Among those also rumoured to be taking part this year include Tamzin Outhwaite, AJ Pritchard, Matt Baker, Amy Hart and Vernon Kay.
*I’m A Celebrity returns in November on ITV
Originally from https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/shane-richie-signs-up-im-22922544