The Secrets Behind Casting I'm A Celebrity: How ITV Chooses Contestants and Ant & Dec Shape the Show

Behind the Scenes of Casting "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!"

Each season, ITV treats the casting of "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!" as a carefully protected secret. Producers begin approaching potential stars months before the show airs, testing interest levels and availability well in advance.

How Casting Begins

Casting teams often start discussions at least six months before the series begins. Agents receive discreet inquiries rather than formal offers, allowing ITV to gauge willingness before commitments are made. The focus is on creating a balanced group of celebrities — from reality stars and sports figures to actors and politicians — ensuring a mix of personalities that will generate both drama and humor.

Ant & Dec’s Surprising Input

While hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly are not directly responsible for selecting contestants, they are regularly consulted during the process. Producers value their instincts about which personalities might work well together or clash in amusing ways. Their insights help shape the final group dynamic.

"They've been doing this for so long that their perspective on who will make good television is invaluable," a production insider shared.

ITV’s Strategy for Comedy and Conflict

ITV’s casting philosophy revolves around chemistry: pairing people who are likely to forge unexpected friendships or stir lighthearted conflict. Certain contestants are chosen specifically to spark humor on-screen, while others are meant to challenge or surprise viewers.

Keeping the Line-Up Secret

Maintaining secrecy is crucial. Final lists are shared with only a small number of senior staff, and new participants are sworn to confidentiality. The element of surprise is key to the show's continued success.

Filming Timeline

Once filming begins, producers monitor daily footage to see how chosen contestants interact. Adjustments in story focus are then made based on what develops organically in camp.

Author Summary

ITV’s secretive and strategic casting for "I'm A Celebrity" balances humor, tension, and personality, with Ant & Dec offering trusted input to enhance on-screen chemistry and storytelling.

Daily Mail — 2025-11-29