I’m A Celebrity has thrown up plenty of memorable moments over the years but the row between Jimmy Bullard and Adam Thomas may go down as one of the most intense.
Thomas was at the epicentre of the drama in South Africa for the legends version of the show, which invited back former winners and other much-loved contestants.
The Waterloo Road actor had already accused David Haye of bullying him during the show, with the boxer taking to social media to share a bizarre AI response after leaving the jungle.
But as we reached the final of the latest series, things descended into chaos further after the eventual winner Thomas accused Bullard of almost compromising his chances of winning.
Bullard, the former Wigan Athletic and Hull City footballer, might well be known for pointing the finger in his infamous goal celebration, but it was Thomas who was being pointed at for his ‘abusive, aggressive and intimidating’ behaviour.
The two stars clashed when Bullard exited a trial which could have led to Thomas’ elimination, with the former Soccer AM host inviting other campmates to have their say before later accusing ITV of editing out crucial parts of their conversation.
The point of contention remained Bullard and Adam Thomas’ row in the jungle (ITV)
Jimmy said: “Adam and all of you can be upset with me. And I absolutely threw him under the bus, I get it, I’ll wear that. But what I don’t stand for is someone being abusive, aggressive and intimidating. You didn’t show none of the C-bombs, that’s a liberty!”
He also pointed at campmates, saying: “Listen, let’s ask everyone.”
Sinitta then agreed, saying: “Enough, enough, I was there and it was aggressive and abusive.”
Although host Ant McPartlin suggested that the only thing that was edited out was Thomas’ use of the C-word, because it was ‘unbroadcastable’, it seems as if the former footballer disagrees, as sources suggest he is now gathering evidence from other stars, with I’m A Celebrity braced for legal action.
Ant and Dec confirm that there was an ‘unbroadcastable’ moment cut from Jimmy Bullard Adam Thomas bust up (ITV)
A source told The Sun: “Proving that Adam’s behaviour was abusive, aggressive and intimidating is the key to Jimmy’s legal case against ITV because that behaviour is in breach of the contract.
“At one point he had his phone out to check notes but no one is sure whether he was also recording chatter between the cast. Insiders say it’s clear from his conduct that a case is being built and that the channel is braced for it after the way he monopolised his moment.”
Another source said: “He wanted everyone to see the shocking unedited version of the fight.
“Adam swore at him multiple times and most bystanders were shocked by his actions so Jimmy felt it was the last chance for viewers to see the full extent of his behaviour.
“He was hugely disappointed in Ant and Dec for appearing to take Adam’s side and feels like he has been made a scapegoat. “Jimmy isn’t an angry person but he will stand up for what’s right.
“He was also disappointed his show buddy Gemma sided with Adam despite not even being present during their row. He thinks it feels performative on her part.
“He is talking to lawyers and looking into his ITV contract to see what grounds there are to sue.”