Fans of entertainment news Ireland have a fresh reality TV twist to talk about: Vicky Pattinson is officially heading back to the jungle, more than a decade after her memorable win on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!. But this time, she is not returning as a contestant. Instead, the former Geordie Shore star is stepping into a high-profile presenting role that puts her right at the centre of the action.
Vicky, now 38, has been confirmed as the new host of I’m A Celebrity Unpacked, the companion show that follows the nightly drama, reactions and behind-the-scenes buzz around the main ITV series. It marks a full-circle TV moment for the reality star, whose original jungle run made her one of the franchise’s standout winners.
Vicky Pattinson returns in a new jungle role
According to the announced lineup, Pattinson will front the spin-off alongside returning host Kemi Rogers and 2023 jungle winner Sam Thompson. For viewers who follow Irish entertainment news and TV news Ireland, the move is a smart one: Vicky brings first-hand experience of jungle life, strong screen presence and a loyal fan base that still associates her with some of the show’s most memorable moments.
Rather than facing Bushtucker trials herself, she will now help guide the conversation around camp life, celebrity reactions and audience talking points. It is the kind of role that suits her well, blending her reality TV background with a more polished presenting brief.
The 2026 series is already making headlines
This year’s series is also drawing attention for a major step forward in accessibility. Broadcaster and former Paralympian Ade Adepitan is set to become the first wheelchair user to take part in the show, with ITV making significant changes to the camp setup in advance.
Reported adjustments include:
- Wider and deeper pathways around camp
- Parking bays and rest areas
- A stairlift added to the jungle shower area
- Specialist wheelchairs and crutches for different terrain and tasks
That development gives this year’s run added significance beyond the usual reality TV spectacle, and it is likely to feature heavily across latest entertainment news Ireland coverage in the days ahead.
Guest names add extra star power
The spin-off show is also expected to feature a lively guest roster. Reported names linked to appearances include Stephen Mulhern, Kate Lawler, Jordan Banjo, GK Barry and Max Balegde. That should give Unpacked a strong mix of reality TV energy, comedy and commentary, helping it appeal to viewers looking for more than just the main nightly episode.
For audiences interested in celebrity news Ireland, reality TV Ireland and wider pop culture Ireland, this is shaping up to be one of the more talked-about entertainment launches of the season.
When viewers can watch
I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! returns on Monday, 16 November at 9pm on Virgin Media One. With Vicky Pattinson back in the fold and a refreshed spin-off format ready to go, the new series already has the ingredients for must-watch television.
Why this comeback matters
In the world of entertainment news Ireland, comeback stories always land well, especially when they feel earned. Vicky Pattinson’s return is not just a nostalgia play. It is a clear career progression, moving from jungle champion to on-screen commentator and host. For ITV, it is a savvy booking. For viewers, it is a familiar face with genuine insight into one of television’s toughest formats.
The takeaway is simple: Vicky’s jungle chapter is far from over, and her latest move is exactly the kind of headline that keeps entertainment news Ireland buzzing.
