Former Birmingham City Boss Harry Redknapp Says I'm A Celebrity 'Changed My Life'
Former football manager Harry Redknapp has revealed that his stint on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! "changed my life", as he prepares to rejoin the ITV reality programme for its all-star edition in South Africa.
Redknapp's Football and Jungle Journey
Redknapp held the managerial position at Birmingham City's St Andrew's in the 2016/2017 season, coming in after Gianfranco Zola's sacking to keep the club in the Championship with a final-day victory at Bristol City. However, despite a significant player recruitment effort that summer, he lasted just eight games into the next season, leaving with Blues second bottom with only four points from eight matches.
The ex-Blues boss claimed the jungle crown in 2018 during the Australian run and has expressed his enthusiasm about heading back, remarking: "I'm sure we will have fun." Redknapp described his initial jungle adventure as "such a great experience", explaining how it transformed his world as he gets ready for a delayed entrance to the celebrity encampment.
How the Show Transformed His Career
He said: "I loved it all. When I came out from the jungle the first time, I didn't realise how big a show it was and the amount of people everywhere who watched it. Suddenly instead of men talking about football all the time, there were children asking about the show. Doing the programme didn't change me as a person, but it did change my life."
The 79-year-old continued: "I became busier as a result and I went on to do all sorts of things I never thought I would do, like theatre and adverts." Redknapp mentioned his anticipation at being back with hosts Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, saying: "I look forward to seeing the boys. They are fantastic. It was just such a great experience last time around and I loved meeting people from all walks of life."
Family Reactions and Co-Star Insights
The capital-born footballer also recalled informing his wife Sandra of his desire to rejoin the ITV reality programme, revealing: "She thinks I'm mad. She knows what I am like though, and when I told her they'd asked me to do this 'Legends' series, she told me: 'It's up to you' – like she always tells me. But I will obviously miss her."
Redknapp is set to make his comeback next week alongside ex-footballer Jimmy Bullard, who acknowledged his initial appearance on the programme in 2014 proved transformational. The 47-year-old explained: "It's weird because ever since I did the programme, a lot of families have come up to tell me they watched it. In the past, it was always lads as I obviously used to play football. I don't think I would have had some of the gigs I have had were it not for I'm A Celebrity. My life has definitely changed (for the better) post-I'm A Celebrity."
Bullard, also hailing from the capital, mentioned he "would love to go a bit further" this time around instead of finishing "stone cold last", having become the inaugural contestant eliminated during his first stint. He continued: "It's flattering that I didn't get forgotten. It's nice to have another bash at it, but it was tough last time and I know the trials are going to be tough again."
Broadcast Details
I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! – South Africa airs at 9pm on ITV1, STV, ITVX and STV Player, broadcasting on weeknights.
