Who Is Favourite To Win Im A Celebrity 2026

So, we’re already talking about I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! 2026? I know, it feels like the last series just ended, but the jungle gossip machine never sleeps. Who’s heading into the Australian bush next year? It’s a fun game to play, especially since the line-up is always a chaotic mix of soap stars, reality royalty, and has-been pop stars.

Let’s be real: predicting the favourite before any names are official is like trying to guess the weather in Manchester. However, based on the bookies' early whispers and the show’s usual formula, a few names keep popping up. And honestly? Some of them are really interesting.

The Bookies’ Early Darlings

Right now, the top slot belongs to a certain Hollywood A-lister who’s been quiet for a while. Think a lovable rogue from a 90s blockbuster, someone who can tell stories and eat a kangaroo testicle with a wink. He’s reportedly “eager” for the challenge, which is code for a nice payday and career reboot.

But hold your horses. The real dark horse is Gino D'Acampo. Wait, is he even available? The Italian chef is a permanent fixture in the “rumoured” list, but if he finally signs on, he’d be the ultimate camp leader. Can you imagine his rants about the food? It would be television gold.

Why Gino Would Steal the Show

He’s loud, he’s passionate, and he’s not afraid to call out a bad kangaroo stew. That’s exactly the energy needed when everyone is grumpy and hungry. He’d probably start a cooking club in the first week, and everyone would love him for it.

On the other side of the coin, we have the soap titans. Actors from EastEnders or Coronation Street always do well because they know how to handle drama. Right now, Danny Dyer is a heavy favourite. He’s blunt, he’s hilarious, and he’d probably try to arm-wrestle a crocodile. Would that be a win? Probably not, but it would be legendary.

The Wildcard Contenders

Don’t sleep on the reality TV royalty. Names like Katie Price are always whispered, but she’s done it before. Instead, look for a Love Island star who hasn’t had their “moment” yet. Someone like Maura Higgins would be a firecracker—all charm and sass, with a great scream for the trials.

And what about a politician? That’s always a fun curveball. Matt Hancock was a shock last time, but he nearly won. Imagine a Jeremy Corbyn or a Boris Johnson trying to build a bed out of bamboo. The nation would be split: some would love the chaos, others would just want them to leave quietly.

The Musical Mystery Guest

There’s always a pop star who needs a boost. This year, the rumour mill suggests Rita Ora might be up for it? She’s busy, but if she says yes, she’d bring glamour and a surprisingly competitive spirit. Or, more likely, it’ll be a boyband member from the 2000s. Think JLS or Blue—someone who can sing a sad song in the jungle and remind us of our teenage years.

Here’s the thing: the real favourite is never the most famous person. Remember last year? The winner was often the quiet, relatable one who cried over a photo of their dog. So, maybe the winner is an ex-Olympian who’s incredibly zen about the whole thing.

Why We Even Care

Let’s be honest: I’m a Celebrity is a weird, wonderful escape. It’s a mixed bag of personalities trapped in a swamp, eating weird things, and complaining about the rain. Betting on the favourite is just part of the fun—like picking a horse for the Grand National based on its cute name.

So, who’s your money on? A gritty soap icon? A chaotic chef? Or a politician who just wants to “connect” with the public? The beauty is, nobody really knows until the first helicopter drops them in. Until then, we just get to daydream about who’ll be the king or queen of the jungle in 2026.

My gut says Gino D'Acampo is the one to watch. But you know what? The jungle loves a surprise. And that’s what makes it so cool.