I'm A Celebrity South Africa Cast in Pay Dispute Over Salaries
Fans of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! are enjoying a mid-year treat with the second-ever I'm A Celebrity... South Africa series, featuring celebrities like David Haye, Adam Thomas, Scarlett Moffatt, and Gemma Collins. The show, set in the South African desert, involves three weeks of gruelling challenges, with one celebrity set to be crowned a legend in the live final. However, behind the scenes, a pay row has reportedly erupted among the cast, causing tension and controversy.
Pay Row Erupts Among Campmates
According to recent reports, one of the campmates is "furious" over salary disparities, specifically involving former Premier League player Jimmy Bullard and ex-football manager Harry Redknapp. While official fees for the South Africa series have not been disclosed, it is alleged that Bullard discovered he is being paid less than Redknapp, leading to significant discontent. A tabloid source revealed that "Jimmy expected to be on the same money as Harry", but Redknapp is considered one of the biggest names in the series, which may justify his higher pay.
Historical Salary Insights
Although current salaries for the South Africa edition remain unconfirmed, historical data from previous series provides context. In 2014, Jimmy Bullard was reportedly paid £100,000, while Harry Redknapp received a substantial £500,000 in 2018, making him one of the highest-paid contestants ever. The source added that Redknapp's fee likely reflects his star power and the fact that he had to be persuaded to spend time away from his wife Sandra in South Africa.
Here is a breakdown of what the cast members were reportedly paid during their original series appearances, based on various sources:
- Adam Thomas — approximately £60,000–£80,000
- Ashley Roberts — approximately £100,000–£150,000
- Beverley Callard — approximately £125,000
- Craig Charles — approximately £100,000
- Gemma Collins — approximately £100,000
- Harry Redknapp — approximately £500,000
- Jimmy Bullard — approximately £70,000–£100,000
- Scarlett Moffatt — approximately £60,000–£80,000
- Sinitta — approximately £80,000–£100,000
- Seann Walsh — approximately £40,000–£60,000
- David Haye — approximately £100,000–£150,000
- Mo Farah — approximately £300,000–£400,000
Cast Motivations and Reactions
When asked about their reasons for returning to the show, the cast provided varied responses. Sir Mo Farah stated he came back because he placed fifth in his previous appearance and is not accustomed to missing out on gold. In contrast, Scarlett Moffatt humorously admitted she wants "a new kitchen", highlighting the financial incentives that often drive celebrity participation. This pay dispute underscores the ongoing debates around equity and compensation in reality television, especially when high-profile names are involved.
As the series progresses, viewers can expect more drama both on and off-screen, with updates on salaries and cast reactions likely to emerge. The situation serves as a reminder of the complex negotiations and expectations that shape celebrity engagements in competitive entertainment formats.
