I'm a Celeb launch hit with Ofcom complaints over 'woke' bias accusations as fans jump to Farage's defence
Nigel Farage is among the latest batch of celebrities who have headed into the jungle
ITV
I’m a Celebrity has been hit with a barrage of Ofcom complaints over Nigel Farage’s appearance on the show.
Farage is well known for his right-views on immigration and gender pay gaps, and he was immediately subjected to Brexit-related jabs on the first night of the show.
There were 31 complaints relating to comments made by other campmates and presenters Ant and Dec, that were critical of “woke” bias.
Some were critical of anti-Brexit views expressed within the first few minutes of the premiere episode when This Morning presenter Josie Gibson made a jab.
WATCH NOW: Farage in the jungle
Farage said: “It’s something different in life, it’s an adventure. It’s a challenge, it’s not going to be easy, but why not?”
Gibson responded: “It can’t be worse than Brexit.”
Minutes later Farage had to drive with Josie and YouTube star Nella Rose to the location of the challenge.
Ant and Dec quipped: “Is it me, or did he veer just a bit too far to the right?”
I'M A CELEB:
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Later, the presenters took a swipe at GB News.
“Now, Nigel is not just known for his controversial political career, he's also got his own show on GB news.
“Of course he won't be presenting that show over the next three weeks, so we'd like to take this opportunity to apologise to all of GB News viewers.”
Ant joked: “Sorry Keith, Sorry Linda” - to roars of laughter from their crew.
One critic said: “So after ten minutes.. two Brexit insults, Ant & Dec saying GB News only has two viewers, Nigel's driving was veering 'too far to the right'. NO insults for other contestants? He was invited by a far left show to ridicule him… sad *****!”
I’m a Celebrity has been hit with a barrage of Ofcom complaints
PA
The GB News Presenter is part of this year’s line-up of celebs, however his inclusion has not be welcomed by some fans of the ITV show.
Farage’s appearance on the show prompted 42 viewers to complain to Ofcom after the series premiere.
Some viewers said they would boycott the show over the ex-politician’s appearance.
However, the ITV show returned to screens last night with a bang despite the calls to stop watching.
It reached a peak audience of 7.8 million, making it ITV’s highest overnight audience of the year.
The 2023 series also ranks as the fourth highest I’m A Celebrity Launch.