Ade Adepitan Poised to Shatter Barriers as First Wheelchair-Bound Contestant on I'm A Celebrity

Ade Adepitan could become the first contestant in a wheelchair to enter the I'm A Celebrity jungle, a groundbreaking move that would redefine the show's landscape.

The Paralympian and TV presenter, who contracted polio at just 15 months old, is reportedly in advanced discussions with producers eager to adapt the camp for his participation. This push comes despite Adepitan's lifelong challenges stemming from the disease, which left him reliant on a wheelchair.

Producers are reportedly exploring modifications to the set-up to accommodate Adepitan's needs. A source revealed, "Ade has been in talks with I'm A Celebrity, who are really keen to make it work. They think his infectious larger-than-life personality would make him a perfect campmate for the new series."

Adepitan has been vocal about his health struggles and the impact of polio on his life. He has actively advocated for vaccination, emphasizing its importance in preventing the disease. "Polio can have devastating consequences, which I know all too well," he stated. "If I had been vaccinated when I was exposed to polio, I would not be in a wheelchair now."

Despite these challenges, Adepitan represented Great Britain in wheelchair basketball at the 2004 Summer Paralympics and has built a successful television career. He first gained attention on Beyond Boundaries in 2005 and had a minor role in EastEnders prior to that.

In addition to his television work, Adepitan has hosted coverage of The Invictus Games, guest-hosted BBC's The One Show, participated in Children in Need, and fronted the Channel 4 documentary Whites Only: Ade's Extremist Adventure in 2023.

Ade is married to singer-songwriter Linda Harrison, known as Elle Exxe. They have two children: Bolla, five, and Zella, 16 months. He recounted their meeting at the National TV Awards, where he was drawn to her smile and aura.

Joanna Page, known for her role in Gavin and Stacey, is also rumored to be in advanced talks for the upcoming series. The Welsh actress is recognized for her portrayal of Stacey Shipman, a character beloved by audiences.

Page would be only the second cast member from Gavin and Stacey to join the show, following Larry Lamb's participation in 2016. A source indicated that she is enthusiastic about the opportunity and wants to make her children proud.

Ice-skating legend Christopher Dean is another name linked to this year's jungle. The Olympic gold medallist, who won alongside Jayne Torvill with their iconic Bolero routine at the 1984 Winter Olympics, has previously declined offers but is now considering the challenge.

A source noted that Dean has always been adamant about not participating in the jungle but is now viewing it differently after retiring. "When bosses came knocking this year, he saw it in a different light," the insider said.

Dean and Torvill concluded their performances following the cancellation of Dancing On Ice, culminating in an emotional final TV performance during the grand final in March 2025.

I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! is hosted by Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly and is expected to return to Australia later this year.