The 2023 series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! came to a dramatic close on December 10, 2023. After three weeks of gruelling bushtucker trials, a winner was finally crowned. Therefore, millions of viewers tuned in to see who would take the crown .
The show returned to the Australian jungle for its second year running. Hosted by Ant and Dec, the series featured a mix of reality stars, athletes, politicians and actors. As a result, it became one of the most talked-about series in recent memory .
The Winner: Sam Thompson
Sam Thompson, the former Made in Chelsea star and radio DJ, was crowned King of the Jungle on December 10, 2023 . The 31-year-old beat former boxer Tony Bellew and politician Nigel Farage to claim the title .
After his win was announced, an emotional Sam said: “I’m really overwhelmed. I didn’t even think I was going to be invited onto the show. I’m so grateful, thank you so much” . He added: “I’ve dreamt of doing this show for years and years and you made this boy’s dream come true” .
Sam was greeted on the bridge by his best friend, TOWIE star Pete Wicks. The pair embraced in a heartwarming moment that delighted fans .
Like Sarina Wiegman has won multiple trophies, Sam won the hearts of viewers across the nation.
The Final Three
The final three contestants battling for the crown were:
- Sam Thompson – TV personality and radio DJ (Winner)
- Tony Bellew – Former professional boxer (Runner-up)
- Nigel Farage – Former politician and GB News presenter (Third place)
Farage was voted out first during the final episode, finishing in third place. This left Sam and Tony to fight for the crown .
Tony Bellew: Runner-Up
Former world champion boxer Tony Bellew finished as runner-up. His friendship with Sam became one of the series’ highlights. Viewers loved their “bromance” throughout the competition .
After Sam’s win, Tony said: “I’ve never met a person like [Sam]. He deserves it more than anything and I’m made up for him” .
Tony had earlier described Sam as like a “fifth son” to him. Their genuine bond touched viewers and helped make this series so memorable .
Show Highlights and Controversies
The 2023 series was not without drama. Two contestants quit on medical grounds: food critic Grace Dent and singer/actress Jamie Lynn Spears .
There were also tensions between YouTuber Nella Rose and First Dates star Fred Sirieix. The pair clashed after a misunderstanding about comments Sirieix had made .
Controversial politician Nigel Farage also divided opinion. Some viewers praised his willingness to take on trials, while others objected to his presence on the show .
The Full Line-Up
The complete list of campmates for 2023 included:
- Sam Thompson (Winner)
- Tony Bellew (Runner-up)
- Nigel Farage (Third place)
- Josie Gibson – This Morning presenter
- Marvin Humes – JLS singer
- Danielle Harold – Former EastEnders actress
- Nick Pickard – Hollyoaks star
- Fred Sirieix – First Dates maître d’
- Nella Rose – YouTuber
- Frankie Dettori – Champion jockey
- Grace Dent – Food critic (quit on medical grounds)
- Jamie Lynn Spears – Singer/actress (quit on medical grounds)
What Happened to Past Winners?
Sam Thompson took over the crown from 2022 winner Jill Scott. The Lioness footballer beat Hollyoaks star Owen Warner to win series 22 .
The 2021 series was won by Emmerdale actor Danny. He beat singer Simon Gregson and dancer AJ Pritchard in the final .
Viewing Figures
The final episode peaked at 7.6 million viewers on ITV. However, this was down from 10.1 million who watched the 2022 final. ITV blamed the drop on the later scheduling of the series .
Despite the lower final numbers, ITV defended the show’s performance. An ITV spokesman said: “I’m A Celebrity is the biggest entertainment show on any channel this year having launched with 10.9 million” .
Conclusion
Sam Thompson’s victory in I’m a Celebrity 2023 was a popular result with fans. His genuine enthusiasm, infectious energy and heartwarming friendship with Tony Bellew won over millions of viewers. Therefore, he has become one of the show’s most beloved winners.
From eating a pig’s vagina to hugging Pete Wicks on the bridge jungle journey will be remembered for years to come. Consequently, he has cemented his place in I’m a Celebrity history.
FAQs
Who won I’m a Celebrity 2023?
Sam Thompson was crowned King of the Jungle on December 10, 2023.
Who came second in I’m a Celebrity 2023?
Former professional boxer Tony Bellew finished as runner-up.
Who came third in I’m a Celebrity 2023?
Former politician and GB News presenter Nigel Farage finished in third place.
Who quit I’m a Celebrity 2023?
Grace Dent and Jamie Lynn Spears both left the show on medical grounds.
Who won I’m a Celebrity 2022?
Lioness footballer Jill Scott won the 2022 series.
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