ITV axes I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! spin-off show Extra Camp after nearly two decades
ITV has axed I’m a Celeb spin-off show Extra Camp after nearly two decades.
The programme — hosted by former contestants Emily Atack, Adam Thomas and Joel Dommett for the 2019 series — will not be returning this year.
It had run since the jungle reality show began in 2002.
But bosses decided the ITV2 companion, previously called I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! NOW!, had become too expensive.
It was shown at 10.30pm — just outside the channel’s prime time schedule, which is about to get a big push.
An ITV source said: “ITV have been discussing the future of Extra Camp for some time and it’s not a decision they’ve taken lightly as they are very fond of it.
“But bosses are focusing on growing ITV2’s prime-time offering on the channel and Extra Camp, sadly, isn’t a part of that.
“The show is quite expensive to make and, in the current climate, they’ve had to make a tough commercial decision.”
Joel confirmed The Sun’s story this evening and said in a statement on Instagram: “The time has unfortunately come to put Extra Camp to bed in its uncomfortable hammock.
“The show will no longer continue. It’s been a huge privilege to be a part a show with such a rich history filled with amazing hosts. The producers have assured me that @emilyatackofficial @adamthomas21and myself are not to blame.
“They said the show was better than ever and also that Joel is the sexiest presenter we have ever had (I wasn’t listening but it was something like that) – it is simply because it’s expensive given how late it’s on and the funds will be used in more prime time slots.
“I’ve told them that Adam will do it for free but the decision is made. Thank you to all the crew who have made this the most wonderful 3 years, you have shaped me as a person and presenter. I’ve learnt so much.
“Thank you to everyone for watching.”
Since the ninth series in 2009, Extra Camp has mostly been filmed live in Australia, with only the occasional celebrity interviews shown from London.
The show has had 17 presenters since it first aired.
Previous hosts have included tragic It Girl Tara Palmer-Tomkinson, Emma Willis, ex-Love Island presenter Caroline Flack and her replacement on the dating show Laura Whitmore.
Stacey Solomon and Scarlett Moffatt have also fronted it.
An ITV insider added: “ITV2 has loved having I’m A Celebrity: Extra Camp on the channel and it’s really sad the show is ending.
“All the presenters over the years have been fantastic, along with the brilliant, hard-working production crew.”
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